The last few years in business have been tough to navigate. We don’t need to highlight all the challenges, but we do need to recognise that we’re still in business. Maybe we’ve adapted to the demand or stepped sideways to reinvent how we do things. There’s a reason you became a business owner and stepped up to the challenges you now face. Business owners are strong, determined and optimistic. We don’t always get it right the first time, but it’s the things we do wrong that ultimately help our business grow. Without question, you need to be recognised for your belief in your business and yourself. This is why we’re encouraging all businesses around Lake Mac to get involved in the 2023 Lake Macquarie Business Excellence Awards.
The benefits of recognition
Just imagine for a moment, stepping up on stage to be recognised for all the hard work you pour into your business. Amongst fellow business owners, who understand and appreciate the effort and determination that goes into owning a business. It’s the ultimate recognition. It’s like seeing that parent with the pram walking the newborn baby at 5am, all you have to do is nod. They know you know. But it’s more than that. It’s the trust, and proof that accompanies that recognition. Just being in the competition can ignite that spark to grow and improve your business. Plus the added media exposure definitely benefits your bottom line.
What type of businesses can apply?
Are you thinking your business is the wrong fit for this? Read on. It doesn’t matter what your business provides, there is something for everyone with 14 categories available to apply for. From the most outstanding employee to outstanding start-up, excellence in sustainability, large, small or micro businesses.
This year, every applicant gets a second chance to win as we’ve introduced the People’s Choice Award. All finalists in the business categories will be eligible, and the public will be able to vote for their favourite organisation. We hope this will provide some great promotional opportunities and some extra fun for everyone.
Why should you apply – watch this video from 2022 Business of the Year – SAPHI.
Business Excellence Awards categories
- Outstanding Employee
- Outstanding Young Business Leader
- Outstanding Business Leader
- Employer of Choice – 20 or Less Employees
- Employer of Choice – 21 or More Employees
- Excellence in Innovation
- Excellence in Sustainability
- Outstanding Community Organisation
- Outstanding Visitor Experience – Tourism and Hospitality*
- Outstanding Start-Up
- Excellence in Diversity and Inclusion
- Excellence in Micro Business
- Excellence in Small Business
- Excellence in Large Business
- Business of the Year* (judges assess winners of each business category)
- People’s Choice Award* (public vote, all finalists eligible)
* these categories are unique to Lake Macquarie and do not progress to Business Hunter Awards.
The details and how to apply
The Lake Mac Business Excellence Awards are open now, and close on the 19th May 2023. The application process is completed through an easy online form, and business owners will be asked a series of questions about their business.
Learn more about each category, questions and eligibility here.
You’ll find out if you’ve made it through as a Finalist on 23rd June 2023. The winners will then be announced at the gala ceremony on Friday the 21st July at Belmont 16s. If you do win, you’ll then progress through to the Business Hunter Awards and possibly even the Business NSW Awards.
More information and how to apply can be found here: Lake Mac Business Excellence Awards
It’s your time to shine
We believe in your ability to make a difference in our community. Since starting Lake Mac Family Life we’ve discovered and now support so many local businesses, but there is only so much we can do. It’s your turn to step up and shine the spotlight on all your hard work. We’re here to stand with you as a fellow Lake Mac business owner. You’ve got this!
