Winners of the Hull and East Yorkshire Business Awards are set to receive much more than just a trophy. For the first time in the event’s history, tailored prize packages are being curated to help successful companies and their leaders achieve further excellence. Organisers Simon Jones and Jane Smallwood have secured substantial backing, with contributions worth tens of thousands of pounds from key supporters such as the University of Hull, For Entrepreneurs Only, regional law firm Wilkin Chapman, and marketing consultancy Fred.
Simon Jones, speaking about the event, noted that while the celebration ceremony remains a highlight on the calendar, there was an opportunity to enhance the impact further. “I always felt there was more that could be done, that there was an opportunity to really help shape further success, and with a strong line-up of partners, that is exactly what we’re aiming to do,” he said.
The University of Hull is offering winners professional development, management coaching, innovation support, resources, and event space. Emma Calverley, director of Knowledge Exchange, stated, “The University of Hull has been a long-term supporter of the Hull and East Yorkshire Business Awards and the opportunity to enhance this in a new era for the event is something we really welcome. Alongside our fantastic offering to students is an incredible range of business programmes, tailored to those looking to improve all elements of a company’s performance as well as individual skill sets. This opportunity to showcase what is here in Hull, for the benefit of Hull, is a perfect fit for our ethos.”
Winners will also access the For Entrepreneurs Only network, which provides events and peer-led programmes aimed at developing businesses and individuals. Jan Brumby, chief executive, commented, “What FEO is all about, our strapline in fact, is helping businesses to start, adapt, and grow. Quite simply, the more private businesses set up and expand, the more the local economy will benefit from that. Our members have so much to offer, they’ve been through the challenges, the highs and the lows that being in business brings, and we’re delighted to embrace the successful individuals emerging from these re-energised awards and welcome them into our network.”
James Marsden, partner at Wilkin Chapman and head of the firm’s Beverley office, expressed his delight at supporting the event, saying, “We’re delighted to be in a position to help ensure a legacy emerges from this excellent event. As a law firm with a strong presence in the region, representing private and commercial clients, we really see the value in nurturing further success.”
Fred will offer marketing consultations for winning businesses. Emma Pearson-Kendall, managing director, said, “Having been involved in the launch of a new chapter for these fantastic awards, we’re thrilled to now play a part in the wider development of the winners, bringing expertise from our work with businesses of all sizes and in many sectors.”
Entries for the awards, which will be announced at a gala dinner hosted by city-born actor Debra Stephenson at Hull’s DoubleTree Hotel on 21 November, are still open. The deadline for applications is 29 September, with a dozen categories including Outstanding Contribution, Start-Up Business of the Year, and Environmental & Sustainability Award. Full details and entry criteria are available on the event’s website.
The Hull and East Yorkshire Business Awards are poised to make a significant impact in 2024, offering winning businesses extensive support and resources. With the involvement of prestigious partners, the event aims to foster continued growth and success among the region’s businesses.