Solihull businesses encouraged to apply for King’s Awards for Enterprise
Solihull businesses are being urged to apply for one of the most respected and globally recognised marks of excellence - the King’s Awards for Enterprise.
This year introduces a significant new category – Young Founder – recognising outstanding entrepreneurs aged 18 to 30 who are actively leading successful businesses.
The category joins the existing awards for Innovation, International Trade, Sustainability, and Promoting Opportunity through Social Mobility.
Recipients of the award are invited to a Royal reception, presented with their award by the Lord-Lieutenant, and can display the King's Awards emblem on their products, marketing materials and website for five years.
Previous recipients report increased commercial value, enhanced international credibility, the ability to ‘open more doors’ to future business opportunities, media exposure and improved staff morale.
The Awards, now celebrating their 60th anniversary, have recognised more than 8,000 outstanding UK businesses since they were established in 1965 and continue to celebrate organisations that demonstrate excellence, innovation and positive impact.
Organisations of all sizes and sectors are eligible to apply, provided they meet the entry criteria. Entry is free, and businesses can submit applications in more than one category.
Steve Whitmarsh (pictured), chief executive of Solihull-based Multifleet Vehicle Management which trades as runyourfleet - which received the King’s Award for Enterprise in 2024 for Innovation - said every business should either be entering or striving to receive the award.
Steve said: "The King's Awards for Enterprise is recognised across the UK and internationally as the gold standard.
“For us as a business, it's the benchmark award for quality that can open doors to further opportunities and start conversations locally, nationally and across the world.
“Since we won two years ago, it has enabled us to access opportunities that ordinarily might not be available - and to win business.
“It’s been great for staff morale and recruitment and created a real buzz about the place. Going to Windsor Castle to meet the King was a memorable moment and it was a privilege to welcome The Lord-Lieutenant to our premises.
“I’d love to see more Solihull businesses applying. We’ve got some great enterprises in the borough and I really want to see their success and achievements honoured in this way.”
Deputy-Lieutenant for the West Midlands, Paul Thandi – former Chairman and CEO of the NEC Group – said it was an award worth going for.
He said: “Those who apply will confirm that whilst it is a rigorous process, it is the detail it goes into that makes the King’s Awards for Enterprise what they are: the ultimate business award. Even those not successful on their first application, say the submission taught them a lot about their business and what is needed to develop in a competitive environment.
“The Awards are for all businesses of all sizes and types and the introduction of the category for Young Founder at this time is absolutely right and will help recognise the outstanding entrepreneurs we have here in the borough.”
Those considering an application are encouraged to review the eligibility requirements carefully and begin gathering the financial and supporting evidence required before the September 8 deadline.
The Solihull Investment Team at Solihull MBC and Solihull Chamber of Commerce are keen to encourage applications from Solihull-based enterprises and will provide guidance as well as introductions to previous winners who have direct experience of entering.
Support and advice are also available from West Midlands Lieutenancy on 0121 222 5040 or Email.
