The Barking and Dagenham Chamber of Commerce Business Awards have put a focus on three more categories open for entry.
The awards, which the Post are a sponsor of, are designed to celebrate the efforts of businesses in the borough.
The deadline for entries is Tuesday, April 16 at 5pm.
There are 11 categories to enter for free, but the three categories we will cover this week are Sole Trader/Micro Business of the Year, SME of the Year, and the Home Grown Talent category.
Sole Trader / Micro Business of the Year
This award acknowledges the achievements of small businesses with ten or fewer employees.
Regardless of the type of company – whether home-based, an online venture, market trader, or small shop – the key factor is that your business is thriving.
Judges will be keeping an eye out for creativity and innovation on limited resources, evidence of achievement and sustainability, and a clear vision for the future.
The 2023 winner of this honour was the Kromanti Distillery & Blending House.
SME of the Year
Specially reserved for companies with a workforce of 11 or above, this newly introduced category celebrates businesses based on their performance according to their business plan.
Judges will be interested in the ways you market your products or services, how you have built and maintained your customer base, and your vision for the upcoming year.
Home Grown Talent
This award identifies those who have made substantial contributions to the borough over their lifespan.
Both local and out-of-town businesses, charities, community groups which have operated for at least one year in Barking and Dagenham can apply.
Judges will be looking for evidence of your operating period in Barking & Dagenham, what your organisation contributes to the borough, your reasons for operating in the area, and your plans for the forthcoming year.
Last year saw the Study Buddies Tuition Centre bagging the award.
About the awards
The Barking & Dagenham Chamber of Commerce Business Awards are free to enter.
The chamber's president Jamie Banks said: "Entering is an excellent way to promote your business and gain recognition for your achievements.
"The Barking & Dagenham Chamber of Commerce Business Awards are a wonderful platform for celebrating and generating business success."
He added: "There are twelve categories of awards that can be won, and whilst there is a focus on businesses located in Barking and Dagenham, there is also a category for those businesses, charities and community organisations based outside the borough which are doing business in Barking and Dagenham.
"There are plenty of opportunities for entry and are free for all types of businesses to participate."
To enter and for more information, contact Barking and Dagenham Chamber of Commerce at info@bdchamber.co.uk or call 020 8591 6966.
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