How to Enter
We welcome entries from businesses of all sizes and sectors providing they have a valid Somerset postcode (see our terms and conditions below for full details).
Winning companies should be innovative, progressive and demonstrate excellence against the specific category entered.
Applications for a Somerset Business Award need to be made online via the online entry form for each category.
EACH ENTRY MUST INCLUDE:
- An 800-word statement
- Six key points to summarise
- Up to five supporting attachments (no larger than 2MB each)
- A high-resolution company logo
IN ADDITION TO THE CRITERIA, YOUR 800-WORD APPLICATION NEEDS TO INCLUDE THE FOLLOWING (WHERE APPLICABLE):
- A background on your business and a brief history
- Why your company should win
- How you are better than your competitors
- How your business has improved based on the category requirements
- An indication of how the business has benefited financially as a result of improvements in this category
- Financial records where relevant (turnover, profit/loss figures will be treated in confidence)
Please check our Entry Terms & Conditions to ensure that your business is eligible to enter.
Business of the Year Award
(Small)
Sponsored by Gather Technology
Aimed at businesses with a turnover up to £0.5 million
All the winners of a “Business of the Year Award” will have demonstrated how they can stand out from the crowd in their category through areas such as ambition, profitability, growth . . .
Business of the Year Award
(Medium)
Sponsored by Higos Insurance Services
Aimed at businesses with a turnover of up to £5 million
All the winners of a “Business of the Year Award” will have demonstrated how they can stand out from the crowd in their category through areas such as ambition, profitability, growth . . .
Business of the Year Award
(Large)
Sponsored by Netitude
Aimed at businesses with a turnover of £5 million or over
All the winners of a “Business of the Year Award” will have demonstrated how they can stand out from the crowd in their category through areas such as ambition, profitability, growth…
Albert Goodman Family Business of the Year Award
Sponsored by Albert Goodman
This award recognises sound, family-owned businesses across all sizes and sectors.
The winning company will demonstrate how the family has had significant influence on the business, with one or more family members being involved in the management . . .
Best Use of Digital Technology Award
SPONSORED BY EVO AGENCY
This award recognises firms in the digital and technology sector and beyond who are using robotics, apps or even artificial intelligence to stand out in the marketplace . . .
Charity of the Year Award
Sponsored by Clarke Willmott
This award celebrates the fantastic work of charitable organisations.
The winning Somerset-based charity will need to demonstrate not just how much money it raises or spends, but also how it uses fundraising . . .
Employer of the Year
Sponsored by HR Dept
This award recognises organisations that have created a stimulating and supportive work environment and a real commitment to the welfare of its employees . . .
Investing in Somerset Award
Sponsored by Hinkley Point C
Does your business live for all things local?
This award recognises companies who are passionate about supporting Somerset’s economy through local activity . . .
Start-Up of the Year Award
Sponsored by Westcotts
Our judges will be looking for innovative ideas or a new concept for businesses that have been registered from April 1, 2022 . . .
Apprentice of the Year
Sponsored by University Centre Weston
The Apprentice of the Year Award will honour an individual who has made a positive impact in a business during the last 24 months, while training through an apprenticeship training programme.
The award is open to apprentices of any age . . .
Environmental and Sustainability Award
Sponsored by Agratas
Organisations are becoming increasingly aware of their environmental responsibilities, from reducing waste and energy use, to encouraging staff to adopt green travel plans and supporting eco-friendly initiatives, both within their companies and in the wider community . . .
Service Excellence Award
Sponsored by Porter Dodson
Are you a business with more than just “good” customer service? This category recognises companies that provide a level of service over and above normal industry expectations . . .
Manufacturing and Engineering Award
Sponsored by Leonardo
This award recognises the most innovative and agile manufacturers and producers in the county.
The judges will be looking for a commitment to proven research and development practices, a passion for continuous improvement and a solid track record of business planning and growth . . .
Business Resilience and Growth Award
Sponsored by Barclays
The Business Resilience and Growth Award recognises those businesses who, despite the soaring costs of doing business, have reinvented their offering to go from strength-to-strength. Many businesses have shown great adaptability to meet the challenges of today’s challenging economic climate to both thrive and grow.
Key Dates for your diary:
September 11, 2024 – awards open for entry
November 22, 2024 – entries close
December 11, 2024 – shortlist announced
December 11, 2024 – February 10, 2025 – judges’ visits
February 12, 2025 – finalists announced
February 14, 2025 – tickets go on sale to finalists
February 26, 2025 – tickets go on sale to general public
March 28, 2025 – awards ceremony
