Award categories

Inspiring Women in Business: Multiple Awards

Focusing on individuals within our member organisations who deserve recognition, be it for their contribution to their organisation, the region or to other colleagues. 

Inspiring Woman in Business – sponsored by Intuit for small businesses

Inspiring Woman in Business – sponsored by Handelsbanken for businesses with over 50 employees

Inspiring Woman in Business for our international trade members

New for 2025: Inspiring Woman in Business New Business Award – sponsored by Sage for Start Ups, Solos and new businesses under 5 years

Most Inspiring Employer: Multiple Awards

Awarded to the member organisations which have made a significant contribution to the development and retention of women in their workforce, whilst inspiring the next generation of women in business.

Most Inspiring Employer for small businesses –  sponsored by Sage

Most Inspiring Employer for businesses with over 50 employees – sponsored by Handelsbanken

Inspiring Woman in Business – Business Leader of the Year

This category is open to inspiring women who have a strong regional profile and have achieved accomplishments of significance over their career. Nominees will possess qualities of vision, innovation, entrepreneurial drive and leadership. A woman who goes above and beyond, with evidence of giving back to business and the community/or individuals. A role model to all – a truly inspiring woman.

Sponsored by Sweeney Miller Law

Community and CSR Inspiring Woman of the Year: Business Award

This will be awarded to the individual who has actively been involved in supporting charity or the local community. The nominee could also be someone who has implemented initiatives and champions corporate social responsibility. The winner will be passionate about making a difference

Sponsored by Hargreaves

Community and CSR Inspiring Woman of the Year: Charity Award

This new category will be awarded to an individual who is employed by a charity, voluntary or third sector organisation. This person could be responsible for implementing new services or campaigns, or be a champion for their colleagues ensuring wellbeing within the organisation. The nominee could be someone who has implemented initiatives to champion and enable corporate social responsibility with partner/supporter businesses. The winner will be passionate about making a difference and be able to demonstrate the impact their work has had on the organisation’s beneficiaries or income.

Apprentice of the Year

Would you like to recognise an outstanding apprentice you have within your organisation, or know personally or professionally, who represents the next generation of women in business?

Sponsored by Hartlepool College of Further Education

One to Watch

This category is open to individuals doing amazing work. One to watch might be a future leader, a rising star with an exciting future ahead. Alternatively, the nominee could be an individual who is experienced in their field – a future star to look out for and ‘one to watch’.

Sponsored by Dame Allan’s Schools