The benchmark of excellence
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The Great British Excellence Awards celebrate the people, businesses and organisations doing exceptional work. Explore the categories and help recognise someone shaping the future through their achievement, leadership and impact.
Working Women Awards
Business Excellence AwardsWomen-Led Small Business of the Year
Recognising the outstanding small women-led business of the year
About this category
Women-Led Small Business of the Year recognises a women-led small business that punches above its weight. It celebrates excellent products or services, loyal customers, sound growth and a business that plays its part in its local community. Judges look for a well-run business with a clear identity and results to match.
Eligibility
- Open to women-led or women-owned businesses with fewer than 50 employees
- Any sector, trading for at least one year
- Sole traders and micro businesses are welcome
Judging criteria
- Performance: growth in revenue, customers or profitability
- Customer focus: service quality and loyalty
- Distinctiveness: what sets the business apart
- Community: contribution to the local area or sector
Qualitative criteria
- Hands-on, committed leadership
- Pride in quality
- Adaptable and resilient
- Valued by customers and community
Metrics
- Turnover and growth over the last one to three years
- Customer numbers, retention and reviews
- Jobs created
- Local partnerships or community support
Additional criteria
- Must have been trading for at least 12 months
- Achievements should fall mainly within the last three years
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