BLOGS
The Queen’s Award for Enterprise
Today we recognise and celebrate Her Majesty The Queen becoming Britain's longest serving monarch. During her time as our head of state, she has introduced The Queen's Awards for Enterprise.
The Queen's Awards for Enterprise are arguably the most prestigious awards in British business and 2015 marks the 50th anniversary of the award.
Her Majesty The Queen appoints the awards on advice from the Prime Minister and an advisory committee that includes representatives of Government, industry and commerce, and the trade unions.
The awards themselves are issued for excellence and outstanding achievement in International Trade, Innovation and Sustainable Development. There is also the Award for Enterprise Promotion (QAEP) which is given to individuals who are recognised to have promoted and enhanced enterprise among entrepreneurs and businesses in the UK.
In a recent survey that was undertaken about the benefit of winning one of The Queen's Awards for Enterprise; 76% reported the win had brought added commercial value to their business and 55% reported the win had delivered new business opportunities.
There is a multitude of different businesses that apply each year, from large international companies to micro businesses with only a handful of employees. This is because the awards are judged purely on merit after reaching certain criteria.
HM The Queen holds an awards reception at Buckingham Palace for representatives of the winning companies. Winners of the award can even fly The Queen's Award flag and display the emblem on your stationary and advertising goods!
Awards are announced annually on HM The Queen's birthday; 21st April.
The clock is now ticking to make sure that your entry to The Queen's Awards for Enterprise 2016. Entries close on 30th September.
To check your eligibility, submit your award application or nominate an individual for the Award for Enterprise Promotion (QAEP); you can visit the Government Gateway website below.
If you are unsuccessful, you will receive feedback on your application and advice for moving forward.