How to enter
There are thirteen categories to choose from and you can enter a maximum of three categories per business.
Please read through the category descriptions below, select the category you wish to enter from the list, then click ENTER NOW. You'll need to register and set up your account the first time you do this.
Registering your account
When registering, you will receive an email which will have a click-through link and a validation code to validate your account. You will need to complete this step before you can start your nomination. If you do not receive the validation email, please email lesley@hold-events.co.uk and dawn@hold-events.co.uk
Completing your entry
You can save draft entries and return to edit them as often as you wish before submitting. All you need to do is click on the YOUR ACCOUNT tab on the menu banner and this will take you through to your dashboard where you will find all your draft entries and submitted entries.
When you have finished writing your entry and you are ready to submit, you'll need to agree to the terms and conditions then click the COMPLETE button at the bottom of the page. If your entry is still in draft, you will need to click MOVE TO BASKET at the top of the entry before you can click the COMPLETE button. If you forget your password, please use the reset password link on the login page.
IMPORTANT INFO - PLEASE READ:
- Maximum word counts are shown below the entry box for each question.
- A business can be submitted into a maximum of three categories however please tailor your entry according to the category in order to meet judges requirements.
- Sponsoring companies are not permitted to enter the category they are sponsoring.
- Entries can be submitted by the business directly or by a third party (agent, client etc).
- Successful nominations will be notified following the judging session in July.
ENTRY DEADLINE: 5pm, 12 July 2024
Categories
Best Place To Work
Recognising a business with a focus on developing talent through training, apprenticeships, work experience, diversity and inclusion, career progression and opening opportunities to all. Judges will be looking for evidence of how policies impact on employees at all levels.
Business Person of the Year
For a business owner or leader who has had a major impact on their firm’s success, which may also be delivering benefits to other people, such as employees or the community. The winner of this award should be a positive role model for other business leaders in the region.
Business of the Year
For a business that has performed exceptionally across a range of measures. The winning entry should show strong commercial performance, innovation and good business practices. Judges will also be looking for a company that represents the region well on the national stage.
Environment, Social & Governance Award
Highlighting a business making a positive impact on the environment and society through its products and services, business practices, sustainability or support for communities. The winning company will show how its ESG commitment contributes to its success.
Export & Global Impact Award
Recognising a business that is trading with the world in a successful, innovative way, showing how firms large or small can play their part in Global Britain. The award will recognise successful exporters and companies that have a global vision.
Growth Award
To recognise a medium-sized business that has taken tangible steps to increase its scale and impact. Entrants should be able to present evidence of increases in turnover and/or profit, and also how the growth journey will continue.
Innovation Award
Celebrating inventive thinking, product or system development and creativity in business. The award winner will be able to demonstrate how innovation has boosted company performance.
Made in the North East Award
Recognising excellence in manufacturing and production in the North East. Entrants should demonstrate efforts to improve manufacturing processes and how their activities contribute to the wider economy.
Rising Star
For a young person in business, aged 25 years or less, who is having a positive impact beyond their age and experience. They may be a business owner, employee or apprentice demonstrating notable success, who may have overcome adversity to achieve, or is using their success to help others.
Small Business of the Year
To celebrate a small business, with 50 employees or less, that combines commercial success with other elements of the awards, such as customer service, social impact, innovation and developing talent. Judges will be looking for a distinctive company that has the potential to grow and make real impact.
Start-up Award
This award will go to a business that has been launched within the last two years (since 1 May 2022). Entrants should be able to demonstrate distinctiveness, commitment to growth and how they have overcome challenges in starting up.