The showpiece award for an all-round star performer, flying the flag for Shropshire business excellence. Judged on a combination of:

• Evidence of financial success
• Creativity, innovation and ambition
• Leadership and customer service excellence
• Training, people development and marketing strategies
• Giving back – showing a commitment to Shropshire
• Effective response to economic challenges
• Awards, testimonials and accolades
• A commitment to diversity, wellbeing and sustainability

For start-ups in any sector, formed since January 2023. Entries will be assessed on:

• Strength and originality of business vision
• Clear and dynamic business plan
• Financial objectives, and evidence of progress
• Creative and ambitious marketing and growth strategies
• Testimonials, case studies and accolades

For small or micro businesses in any sector, employing up to 10 full-time equivalent staff. Judged on:

• Innovation, and forward-thinking strategies for growth
• Gaining and sustaining a competitive advantage
• Commitment to staff development and wellbeing
• Clear and creative marketing and growth plans
• Accolades, testimonials, and evidence of financial success

For companies which go the extra mile in looking after the needs of their customers. Judged on:

• Ways of consistently exceeding customer expectations
• Measuring customer satisfaction, and acting on feedback
• Training and development in customer handling and service skills
• Awards, accolades and testimonials
• Evidence of going the extra mile to deliver five-star service

For companies who can demonstrate sustained success over the past three years. Judged on:

• Evidence of strategic and profitable expansion including accounts and payroll growth for 3 years, new products/services and expansion into new markets
• A dynamic and scalable business model
• Profitability, plus a growth in staff numbers and/or turnover
• Ability to break into new markets, at home or overseas
• A commitment to staff development and wellbeing

For businesses which believe in ‘putting something back’ into the Shropshire community. Judged on:

• Top-to-bottom ‘buy-in’ from staff at all levels, over and above statutory requirements
• Examples of projects which have made a real difference to local people’s lives
• Supporting Shropshire suppliers by ‘buying local’
• Fostering links with schools, colleges and community groups
• Case studies, endorsements and testimonials

Celebrating the contribution being made by companies of all sizes in the manufacturing and engineering sectors. Judged on:

• Innovation and customer satisfaction
• Quality control processes, and use of new technology
• Effective leadership and management
• Testimonials, and evidence of financial success
• Health, safety and wellbeing policies and processes

For companies making a positive contribution to some of Shropshire’s most important sectors. Judged on:

• Established market position and strong financial performance
• Overcoming challenges to gain a competitive advantage
• Commitment to staff development and wellbeing
• Clear and creative marketing and growth plans
• Awards, accolades and testimonials

For organisations of any size or sector that demonstrate outstanding commitment to creating a positive, supportive, and rewarding workplace culture. Judged on:

• Employee engagement, satisfaction, and retention initiatives
• Commitment to diversity, inclusion, and equal opportunities
• Investment in staff development, training, and career progression
• Wellbeing programmes and support for work–life balance
• Recognition, testimonials, and evidence of workplace excellence

For companies who have spotted a gap in the market, and thought outside the box to fill it. Judged on:

• Your USP: What makes you stand out from the competition?
• Innovation in products, services or processes
• Evidence of profitability and effective leadership
• Testimonials, awards, and potential for future growth
• A commitment to staff development and wellbeing

For companies leading the way in environmental responsibility and sustainable business practices. Judged on:

• Proven commitment to reducing environmental footprint and promoting resource efficiency
• Innovative approaches to sustainable products, services, or operations
• Integration of sustainability into long-term business strategy and culture
• Positive impact on staff, customers, and the wider community through sustainable initiatives
• Recognition, certifications, or endorsements highlighting environmental leadership

Open to anyone aged 30 or below in January 2026, who demonstrates flair, commitment and an entrepreneurial spirit. Judged on:

• Evidence of a significant influence on the business
• A commitment to training and personal development
• Entrepreneurial attitude, reliability and work ethic
• Strong people skills and maturity beyond their years
• Testimonials from managers, colleagues, and/or customers.

Given to an individual who has given an outstanding contribution to the Shropshire business community. They need to have:

• Championed the Shropshire business community over a significant number of years
• Made a significant positive impact on the lives of others
• Given back to the county through either mentorship, volunteering or charitable actions
• Been an inspirational role model who has inspired their colleagues or peers