Awards galore for SMEs
Apr 19 2005
Small firms seeking fame and glory should check out a number of competitions looking to reward small firms for outstanding achievement.
One such opportunity comes in the shape of the Small Business Champion awards, now in their fourth year. Supported by the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) and Lloyds TSB, these awards recognise all-round business development and entrepreneurial success.
"We're looking for all well-run small enterprises that have been in operation for at least five years, employ fewer than 50 people and offer excellent customer service,” says Stephen Pegge of Lloyds TSB Business. “Whatever your trade and wherever you are based in Britain, it doesn't matter - if you've got a good business tell us about it."
The deadline for entries is 12 May 2005. Six winners in the North, Central, South of England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland regions will go forward to compete in the final at Claridges in London on 15 November 2005. Visit www.fsb.co.uk/general/bsbc for full details.
Alternatively, the second annual Chambers Awards, with a £25,000 top prize, may also appeal. Businesses can enter any or all of 7 categories, listed below.
“Judging the awards refreshes my excitement in British business,” enthuses David Frost, director general of the British Chambers of Commerce, who are running the awards. “Last year, I was really struck by the creative and innovative approaches that directors are using to set their businesses apart.”
For more information, go to www.chamberawards.co.uk. The closing date is 27 June 2005.
Finally, there are awards for businesses that have worked wonders in the field of recycling; either within their own workplace or in the wider community.
The deadline for entries for the National Recycling Awards is 29 July 2005. Visit www.nationalrecyclingawards.com to enter.
(19/4/05)