Businesses in Wales are encouraged to enter The King’s Awards for Enterprise ahead of the upcoming deadline (12 September).
The King’s Awards for Enterprise recognise outstanding achievements by UK businesses across four categories: innovation, international trade, sustainable development and promoting opportunity through social mobility.
Previously known as The Queen’s Awards for Enterprise, the awards programme has recognised over 7,000 businesses since its inception in 1965, with 90% of the recipients being SMEs.
The awards are a globally recognised royal seal of approval for UK companies and celebrate business excellence in the private, non-profit and public sectors.
Chamber member HWM-Water Ltd in Cwmbran was named as a winner in the innovation category in the 2023 awards for its multi-alarm digital float sensor, SpillSens. Created for the domestic drain market, SpillSens offers water companies effective and efficient ways to meet customer and regulatory requirements by providing remote early warning of sewer blockages to prevent pollution spills.
Winners like HWM-Water Ltd receive an official certificate called a Grant of Appointment and a commemorative crystal trophy which is presented to them at their premises by a Lord Lieutenant, a local representative of His Majesty The King. Businesses are also invited to attend a royal reception which takes place in the summer.
The King’s Awards for Enterprise are valid for five years and winners can fly The King’s Awards flag on their premises and use the emblem on their marketing materials. They will also have access to the awards’ alumni network, allowing them to make connections and enter into new markets.
To be eligible to apply for the awards, businesses must be based in the UK, be a self-contained enterprise, have at least two full-time UK employees, file their tax returns on time and compliantly with HMRC, and demonstrate strong environmental, social and governance practices. There are additional category specific eligibility requirements too.
Businesses can apply for one or more categories as long as they meet the entry criteria and are encouraged to apply before 1pm on 12 September to be in with a chance of being shortlisted and winning.
