13
Nov
Entries open for the Stray Ferret Business Awards 2027
Entries are now open for the Stray Ferret Business Awards 2027, celebrating the businesses and people that make the Harrogate district thrive.
The awards, sponsored by Prosperis, are open to businesses of every size and sector across Harrogate, Knaresborough, Ripon, Boroughbridge, Masham, Pateley Bridge and the surrounding villages. Sole traders, independents, family firms, social enterprises and large employers can all enter.
You can enter your own business, or nominate a colleague, team or business you admire.
The winners will be revealed at a black-tie dinner hosted by Clare Frisby at the Crown Hotel, Harrogate, on Thursday 18 March 2027. Finalists will be interviewed and photographed in the Winners Lounge, sponsored by LCF Law.
Niall Gunn, chief executive of Prosperis, said:
We’re proud to sponsor the Stray Ferret Business Awards for the fifth year running. Since the first awards in 2023, we’ve seen some remarkable businesses come forward, from sole traders and family firms to some of the district’s biggest employers.
“The Harrogate district has so much talent and best practice, and too often hardworking businesses don’t get the chance to celebrate their successes. These awards change that. I’d encourage every business, whatever its size or sector, to enter and tell its story.”
Stray Ferret Business Awards host, Clare Frisby. Credit Gerard Binks
This year there are 10 categories, including a new Tourism & Events award. Best Independent Retailer has also been widened to Best Independent, so any owner-run business can now enter.
The categories
Dynamic Leader: for people who drive progress and change in their organisation
Family Business: for firms that balance family involvement with professional management and a long-term vision
Sustainable Business, sponsored by M J Ryder: for businesses that have put sustainability at the top of their agenda
Best Employer, sponsored by Jones Myers: for employers with a strong culture and values that inspire their staff
Rising Star Under 30, sponsored by Thompson Accountants: for up-and-coming talent set for a successful career
Employee Appreciation, sponsored by Vida Healthcare: for the person who is the glue of their team
Business of the Year, sponsored by HMCA: for a business leading the way in strategy, growth, community involvement and developing its people
Best Independent, sponsored by Hornbeam Park: for an owner-run business that goes above and beyond for its customers and community
Digital Growth: for a business that has used digital to drive measurable growth
Tourism & Events: for the hotels, venues, attractions, festivals, shows and visitor experiences that bring people to the district
You've got to be in it to win it
Past winners include Swinton Estate, Live For Today, Lighwater Quarries, Envirovent, Soundproofing Store, Vida Healthcare, Little Bird Made and The Cheeseboard Harrogate.
To enter, choose a category and fill in its entry form. Judges love specifics, so tell your story and back it up with evidence such as results, customer feedback, photos or figures.
Key dates
Entries open: now
Entries close: Wednesday 3 February 2027
Shortlist announced: week commencing 8 February 2027
Awards dinner: Thursday 18 March 2027, Crown Hotel, Harrogate
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