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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.
Start-up of the Year Award
For the young business that has already proved its idea
About this category
The Start-up of the Year Award celebrates a business in its first two years that has turned an idea into something customers want and pay for.
The judges look for a clear problem solved, early traction, a founder team with the drive to keep going and a plan for what comes next.
Eligibility
Open to start-ups in any sector, trading for up to two years, based in or serving the region. Self-nominations and nominations made by others are both welcome.
Judging criteria
- Entries are judged on the strength of the idea
- Early customers and revenue
- The founding team
- Innovation and the plan for growth
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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