Following the 2017 cancellation of the business awards due to low numbers, consultation was undertaken with the business community requesting feedback on the future of the event.
That feedback was consistent and in response to the research, a new program was developed.
The business awards now run under two specific themes and the community is invited to nominate businesses that fit into one of the themes.
In a maximum of 500 words, the person submitting the nomination is encouraged to describe the business and the reason they believe it is worthy of consideration.
Once nominations close the business is given an opportunity to accept or decline the nomination, or edit the nomination.
A judging panel is appointed with one local person acting as chair and three external members.
They assess the written submissions and select up to 12 businesses to progress to the interview stage.
These nominees attend a judging day and are given the opportunity to make a 20 minute presentation to the judges.
The judges then select between six and eight finalists and nominate the theme winners.
The finalists “win” the opportunity to have a short video made to promote their business, organised and paid for by BSC.
The videos are launched on the presentation night when the winners are announced.
There is also a community voted People’s Choice Award for Excellence in Customer Service.
This is a popular/fun category that draws in extra participation.
In 2023, the business awards will include a new category to recognise a regional business as part of BSC’s memorandum of understanding with Federation Council and Moira and Indigo Shire Councils.
Nominations are expected to open in coming weeks.
More information on award categories will be released at the same time.
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