The Queen’s Awards for Enterprise 2018 Open for Business

The Queen’s Awards for Enterprise are the UK’s most prestigious Awards that recognise the outstanding work of businesses and enterprising individuals from across the UK.

First established in 1966, The Queen’s Awards for Enterprise are for outstanding achievement by UK businesses in the categories of innovation, international trade, sustainable development, and promoting opportunity (through social mobility).

There are robust criteria to reach the shortlist with companies expected to demonstrate a real commitment to selling overseas as an integral part of their business strategy and goals. Entries are assessed in three key areas; overseas earnings’ growth, commercial success and strategy.

The awards are a hugely respected accolade that have immense credibility abroad and help British companies to stand out in a competitive global market.

The UK is full of exciting and innovative businesses and the Queen’s Awards for Enterprise are a great way of celebrating their success. We’re encouraging any businesses, great or small, that feel they deserve an accolade to put themselves forward for an award – it’s completely free to enter.

Since inception, 6,876 companies have been awarded a Queen’s Award and previous winners have reported a number of benefits including worldwide recognition, increased commercial value, greater press coverage and business growth. 

Among last year’s winners was Rochdale-based manufacturer, GJD Manufacturing Limited. Find out what the Queen’s Award recognition means to them.

Applications are open until midday on Friday 1 September. Winners will be invited to a Royal reception at Buckingham Palace, hosted by Her Majesty The Queen.

To find out more about the Queen’s Awards for Enterprise, eligibility and criteria, visit the award’s website.