Recognising Excellence Across Test Valley
Each award category celebrates a different aspect of business success, from innovation and leadership to community impact and sustainability. Together, they recognise the people and organisations shaping a stronger, more vibrant Test Valley.
Business in the Community Award
Sponsored by Barratt David Wilson Homes Southampton
Entry Criteria
This award recognises a business that has demonstrated a strong commitment to positively impacting the local community whether through charitable initiatives, community engagement programmes, or partnerships with local organisations, the winner of this award will have shown a dedication to social responsibility.
Judging Criteria
- Evidence of meaningful community involvement and support
- Demonstrated impact of initiatives on the local community
- Innovative and evaluated approach to community engagement and social responsibility
Business Person Award
Sponsored by
Entry Criteria
This award recognises an individual who has demonstrated exceptional leadership, vision, and achievement within the business community. The winner will have made a significant contribution to their organisation’s success, shown innovation within their role, and fostered a positive and effective working environment.
Judging Criteria
- Demonstrated leadership, strategic vision, and influence
- Track record of business achievements and key milestones, including team leadership
- Contribution to the overall success, performance, and growth of the business
Business Innovation and Technology Award
Sponsored by University of Southampton Science Park
Entry Criteria
This award recognises a business that stands out for its innovative and proven use of technology, delivering measurable improvements across products, services, or operations. The winner will have successfully embraced technological innovation to achieve a clear competitive advantage.
Judging Criteria
- Demonstrated and validated use of technology to drive overall business improvement
- Introduction of innovations that create new products, services, or processes
- Positive impact on efficiency, competitiveness, and customer satisfaction
Corporate Business Award
Sponsored by Cobra Hydro UK
Entry Criteria
This award recognises a large corporate business (turnover over £1m) that has demonstrated excellence in leadership, corporate responsibility, and overall business performance. The winner will have achieved significant milestones, upheld high standards of governance, and made a positive impact within its industry while investing in and developing its workforce.
Judging Criteria
- Demonstrated corporate responsibility, strong governance, and ethical business practices
- Evidence of leadership, innovation, and market presence
- Positive impact on the wider industry and contribution to raising standards
- Commitment to employee retention, skills development, and diversity and inclusion
Business Employer Award
Sponsored by
Entry Criteria
This award recognises an organisation that excels in creating a positive workplace culture, prioritising employee wellbeing, engagement, and professional development. The winning business will be known for its commitment to staff satisfaction, diversity and inclusion, and creating an environment where people can thrive.
Judging Criteria
- Evidence of high levels of employee satisfaction and strong retention rates
- Implementation and effective use of innovative employee benefits and initiatives
- Demonstrated commitment to diversity and inclusion across the organisation
- Investment in professional development, delivered internally or externally to support employee growth
New Business Award
Sponsored by
Entry Criteria
This award recognises a new business established within the last three years (from March 2022) that has demonstrated strong growth, innovative foundations, and clear potential for long term success. The winning business will have built early momentum, established effective business strategies, and made a positive impact within its industry or sector.
Judging Criteria
- Evidence of successful market entry and sustained growth since launch
- Development of governance and innovation across products, services, or business models
- Demonstrated potential for long term sustainability and contribution to the wider industry
Rural Business award
Sponsored by Parker Bullen LLP
Entry Criteria
This award recognises a business that has thrived in a rural setting while contributing positively to the economic and social fabric of its local community. Through the provision of products or services, employment, or engagement opportunities, the winning business will have demonstrated resilience, innovation, and a strong understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities of rural life.
Judging Criteria
- Positive impact on the local rural community in which the business operates
- Innovation and adaptability in addressing rural challenges, including effective use of available grants or subsidies
- Contribution to the economic development of the rural area through employment, services, products, or community initiatives
Small Business award
Sponsored by
Entry Criteria
This award recognises the achievements of a small business that has demonstrated strong performance, sustainable growth, and resilience. The winning business will have successfully navigated challenges, shown a commitment to customer satisfaction, and made a positive contribution to the local economy.
Judging Criteria
- Turnover under £100,000
- Evidence of business growth and solid financial performance demonstrating resilience
- Commitment to customer satisfaction and community engagement
- Innovation and adaptability in response to challenges
Sustainability award
Sponsored by Test Valley Borough Council
Entry Criteria
This award recognises a business that has successfully embedded sustainable practices within its operations, delivering positive environmental and social impact through effective governance. The winning business will have demonstrated a genuine commitment to reducing its carbon footprint, promoting environmentally responsible practices, and adopting sustainable business models appropriate to its sector.
Judging Criteria
- Implementation of environmentally responsible practices supported by effective governance
- Demonstrated action to reduce carbon emissions and introduce effective waste management processes over time
- Positive impact on the wider business community and environment through sustainability initiatives and knowledge sharing where appropriate
- Transparent and honest communication with customers and stakeholders regarding progress towards Net Zero
Young Business Person Award
Sponsored by Stannah
Entry Criteria
This award recognises a young professional who has demonstrated exceptional leadership, innovation, and success within their business or sector. The winner will be an individual under the age of 30 as of 14 March 2025, who has made a significant contribution to their organisation’s growth while showing a clear commitment to personal and professional development.
Judging Criteria
- Aged under 30 as of 14 March 2025
- Record of business achievements and key milestones
- Demonstrated leadership qualities, including team management and innovative approaches
- Commitment to ongoing personal and professional development through internal and external opportunities
