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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.
SME of the Year Award
For the small or medium business punching above its weight
About this category
The SME of the Year Award recognises a small or medium-sized business that has delivered outstanding results this year, for its customers, its people and its community.
It celebrates the businesses that make up most of the economy: well run, close to their customers and growing in the right way.
Eligibility
Open to small and medium-sized businesses with up to 249 employees, in any sector, based in or serving the region. Self-nominations and nominations made by others are both welcome.
Judging criteria
- Entries are judged on financial performance and growth
- Customer satisfaction
- Investment in people
- Innovation and community contribution
Qualitative criteria
- Clarity of vision and offer
- Reputation with customers and partners
- Culture and the team behind the business
Metrics
- Revenue and growth
- Customer satisfaction and repeat business
- Jobs created or retained
Additional criteria
- Include figures for the last one to two years
- Examples of standout work and testimonials from customers or partners
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