The Government has recently announced that this year it is even easier to apply for a Queen’s Award as applications will now be accepted online. These awards are much sought after as it can give a business greater prestige, credibility and is also a very useful marketing tool, especially when competing in overseas markets. So, what exactly are the Queen’s Awards and is your business eligible to apply?

To be eligible to apply you need to be a “UK” business with at least two full time employees (or part time equivalent). You then need to be able to satisfy the criteria for one or more of the three Award categories. Whilst many people are aware of the International Trade Award and Innovation Award there is also a Sustainable Development Award. The precise criteria are set out on the website www.queensawards.org.uk but the common theme across all the categories is the need to show outstanding achievement. A successful business can apply for any or all of the three awards.

Aside from the royal reception to which the winners are invited and the formal presentation ceremony, the winning recipients of the Awards are able to use the emblem on all business stationery and promotional literature throughout the five years for which the Award stands. This has been proven to be a fantastic sales and marketing tool with companies reporting increased sales as a direct result. Other potential spin off benefits are increased staff morale, new contacts / suppliers become aware of your business and its products and overseas markets take your business more seriously.

There is no preset number of Awards and the judging panel, consisting or representatives from Government, industry and commerce, and the trade unions, will recommend a number of Awards based purely on the quality of the applications.

Previous Award winners have shown that it is not just large businesses which win these Awards with many being typical business sizes with less than 50 employees.

So, if you think your business can demonstrate outstanding performance then you need to act swiftly as the deadline for applications is 31 October 2007, with the winners being announced in April next year.

If you would like any more information or assistance then contact Glen Marshall at Landin Wilcock & Co on 0114 2754321.