As HM the Queen celebrated her 96th birthday on 21 April, the winners of the annual Queen’s Awards for Enterprise (QAE) were announced.
Among the 232 winners were five Welsh businesses: 4 Mental Health (Conwy), CatSci (Cardiff), Purolite (Llantrisant), Empower Translate (Chepstow) and Colour Tone Masterbatch (Caerphilly).
Now in its 56th year, the internationally recognised awards are one of three public honour systems in the UK. The awards recognise excellence by UK businesses across four categories: innovation, international trade, sustainable development and promoting opportunity through social mobility.
Welsh winners 4 Mental Health, CatSci, Purolite and Empower Translate were recognised for their outstanding achievements in the international trade category, while Colour Tone Masterbatch was the only Welsh business named in the innovation category for their patented solution to assist post-consumer recycling sorting facilities.
What benefits can winning a Queen’s Award for Enterprise offer my business?
The awards celebrate and promote business excellence and are a globally recognised royal seal of approval for UK companies.
If your business wins, you will receive a Grant of Appointment official certificate and a commemorative crystal trophy. The award will be presented at your company by a Lord Lieutenant, one of The Queen’s local representatives.
The Queen’s Awards for Enterprise are valid for five years and winners can fly the QAE flag on their premises and use the Royal emblem on their products, services and marketing material.
Previous winners have reported that they have benefitted from global recognition, greater press coverage and a boost to staff morale.
How can I apply for a Queen’s Award for Enterprise?
Applications for the 2023 Queen’s Award for Enterprise will open on 1 May and eligible businesses and non-profit organisations can apply.
Businesses must be based in the UK, have at least 2 UK employees, be a self-contained enterprise and file their tax returns with HMRC to be eligible to apply.
For each category, businesses need to meet additional criteria to be in with a chance of winning. Click here to see the category specific entry requirements.
Last year Chambers Wales South East, South West and Mid teamed up with Swansea Bay Business Club to host events featuring practical guidance for the application process as well as insights from former winners. Rewatch these useful events here.
