There are 15 planned categories for the Awards. Entry information requirements are explained under each category. To enter a category, simply complete the specific online form and submit.
Company of the Year
The Northern Ireland-based private sector company which has made the biggest positive impact across the spectrum over the past 12 month period in the view of the judges….for reasons which may include business and/or employment growth, acquisitions or other deals, export achievement, etc.
Public Sector Personality of the Year
A government/public sector agency individual who has made a significant contribution, with his or her work impacting on and contributing to the business and economic sector.
Marketing / Advertising Personality of the Year
Once again a high-achieving individual in the eyes of the judges, this time from the wider Marketing/Advertising sector. This may be a leading marketing professional from throughout the business sector, or personality based in the agency/consultancy arena.
Technology Personality of the Year
This category turns the same personality-based spotlight onto the IT/Technology sector, again focused on Northern Ireland. Technology may include computers & IT, telecommunications, software and contact centres.
Retailer of the Year
The retail organisation, ranging from international/national chains through to locally owned groups, which has made the most significant contribution to Northern Ireland, in terms of investment, innovation, expansion or growth.
International Award
This award is open to organisations trading internationally from Northern Ireland, and will recognise the most important achievement/contribution by such a company outside of Northern Ireland during the period, whether in terms of export sales, overseas expansionm/investment or acquisition.
Business / Education Award
An award which will recognise the best of business education. The award can be for companies or public sector organisations providing education for business programmes, or for private sector organisations forging links with education bodies.
Tourism / Hospitality Project of the Year
The individual project within Northern Ireland which, in the view of the panel, has done most to raise standards in the hospitality industry and to attract more tourists to the region.
Green Company of the Year
This award sets out to recognise achievement by a private sector Northern Ireland organisation towards the wider environmental cause. This may focus on a wide programme of environment measures, or one specific initiative which improves a company’s environmental contribution.
Employer of the Year
The Northern Ireland company or organisation which, in the view of the judges, has done the most to create a balanced, satisfying and fulfilling working environment for its employees.
Motor Dealership/Group of the Year
This award recognises the Dealership or Group from the wider motor-related sector who has made the most significant contribution to the sector as a whole.
Business Consultancy of the Year
Northern Ireland’s leading business consultancy firm, and one which takes an innovative approach to working with its client organisations.
Architects of the Year
The building boom in Belfast has meant increased appreciation of the vital role of architects. This award, new for 2008, sets out to recognise and honour the individual or firm of architects responsible for making a significant contribution to development in both Belfast and Northern Ireland as a whole. Clear examples of specific projects must be provided.
Young Business Personality of the Year
This brand new category sets out to identify the achievements of Northern Ireland’s young (35 years old or under) entrepreneurs and business leaders, with entrants able to demonstrate clear achievement and dynamism in their chosen field.
Business Personality of the Year Award
The Northern-Ireland based business personality who in the opinion of the judging panel has contributed most to the local business sector and the local economy as a whole in the last 12 months.
