UK SMEs have been urged to enter the Government’s export awards as new sectors are added
The Department for Business and Trade (DBT) is once again inviting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) from across the country to compete in its Made in the UK, Sold Worldwide awards, with entries open until 9 March.
This year’s competition introduces two new categories and a revised prize package designed to celebrate domestic export success and promote the UK’s global trade ambitions.
Organizers have expanded the awards to include the Digital & Technology and Export Services sectors, widening the scope of the program. These additions join a program that already includes areas such as Advanced Manufacturing & Construction; Agriculture, Food and Beverage; Consulting and Professional Services; Creative Industries; Education & EdTech; Financial Services & FinTech; Health care; Infrastructure and engineering; Low Carbon Energy; and Retail and Consumer Goods.
Alongside our founding partner, the Chartered Institute of Export & International Trade, Lloyds Bank has joined as a new award partner. In addition to an award, a certificate, and a digital winner’s badge, category winners will receive a year’s free business membership to the Chartered Institute, a working capital class from Lloyds Bank’s commercial experts, professional photos of their business, an invitation to the winners’ reception in London, and tailored promotion on social media channels. – DBT. Meanwhile, highly recommended entrants will receive a year’s free membership to the Chartered Institute.
Commending these awards, Gareth Thomas, who is the Minister of Jobs, Small Business and Exports, emphasized the positive impact that sea trade can have on job creation and economic growth. “When small businesses export, it opens up a lot of amazing opportunities. These awards are a testament to the innovation shown by British SMEs every day,” he said. “As we enter the new year, our Plan for Change is about ensuring that businesses across the country develop and grow. This will boost jobs and wages and export firms are key to that growth. I encourage all those who have started exporting to other countries to come in and show their success.”
With new categories on offer and the promise of extensive support and information for winners, the awards provide an attractive platform for ambitious British SMEs to highlight their international success. More information, including entry guidelines and key dates, can be found at great.gov.uk/campaign-site/made-in-the-uk-awards.
