Top tips for submitting a winning entry to the Stray Ferret Business Awards 2025

Entries are now open for the Stray Ferret Business Awards 2025 - and it's free, simple and fast to enter so don't hesitate to fill out a nomination today, for your chance to be recognised amongst other local businesses in the district.

The deadline for entry is Sunday, January 12 2025, with the awards evening taking place on Thursday, March 13 2025.

If you're considering entering a business, an employee or your manager but don't know where to begin, we've compiled some quick and easy tips to ensure the best chance of getting shortlisted.

One size does not fit all

If you're submitting more than one entry - you're not limited to entering just one category - then please complete a new form for each category.

There is specific judges' criteria for each, so you need to give your business the best chance to shine.

The judges' criteria provides the framework

Ensure that your entry covers the points listed in the criteria for each category. After all, that's what the judges are looking for, and it gives you the opportunity to showcase why you think you've hit the brief.

Introduce yourself

A short, informative narrative on what your business does is important – don’t expect the judges to know who you are.

A strong opening paragraph grabs attention

Make sure your strongest point is in your opening paragraph – you want the judges to continue reading. A bold statement that gets their attention can work well.

Keep it clear

To make it even more digestable for the judges, you could structure your entry with headings based around each criteria. 

Underneath, you should add a brief explanation of how you, your company or your employee demonstrated this point.

Short and sweet works well

Your entry doesn't have to be too long either - keeping it consise and snappy means that the key points don't get lost, and you don't have to spend too long pouring over the details.

Don't be shy

This your opportunity to sell yourself, your colleagues or your great business, and get all the hard work and dedication officially recognised - so shout out about that success. 

If you feel like you could enter multiple categories - do it

Businesses are not limited to one entry - you can enter as many as you see fit.

If you feel as though the company as a whole should be recognised with Sustainable Business award, but you also have a Rising Star Under 30 you want to champion, you can and should enter both.

What are you waiting for?

The Stray Ferret Business Awards 2025 promises to be a night of celebration, networking and general merriment. 

If you'd like to be part of the evening, nominate a business or an individal today. You can browse the categories below.

• Dynamic Leader - sponsored by Impulse Decisions.
  
• Business Growth - sponsored by Claro Court Business Centre.
  
• Sustainable Business - sponsored by tbc.
  
• Best Employer - sponsored by Jones Myers.
  
• Rising Star Under 30 - sponsored by Thompsons Chartered Accountants.
  
• Employee Appreciation - sponsored by Vida Healthcare.
  
• Business of the Year - sponsored by Reed Bordall.
  
• Best Independent Retailer - sponsored by Hornbeam Park.
  
• Inclusivity Award - sponsored by Kempston-Parkes Chartered Surveyors.
  
• Best Use of Digital - sponsored by Xi Communications.