Why Enter?

You don’t have to be nominated to enter the awards – you can enter yourselves!

Simply fill in the entry form and you are in the competition.

Businesses are judged on whether they are achieving their goals, and whether they are where they should be at this stage in their business journey. It does not matter how big or small you are, and we have had owner-operator businesses take out awards over businesses that employ hundreds.

But being small means taking part has a much bigger impact. The promotional boost you can take advantage of can grow your client base considerably. Some small businesses that have won their categories have reported business doubling overnight as a result of their win.

If you’re too busy to stop and reflect on your wins, you’re probably overdue for recognition. The entry process can double as a strategic check-in and the rewards are well worth the time.

2 years is a long time in business. Your business has changed, and you will be competing with a different group of businesses. You will be able to take what you learnt from your last awards experience and write an even better application – you’ll be surprised how far you have come.

If you can run a business, you can enter an award. Plus, we are on hand to give feedback and advice – you are not alone in putting your best foot forward.

Your team might. Recognition boosts morale, attracts talent, and builds a strong internal culture. Entering the awards shows that you are proud of your business and grows pride within your staff.

It’s not about size, it’s about whether you are hitting the goals you have set for yourself and running a suitably tight fashion for the stage you are at. Small businesses have every chance to compete with the big players and have often taken the top prize in their categories.

Of course.

The only people who see your application are the two co-ordinators (Guy and Miles) and the judges.

Everyone signs a confidentiality agreement which states that they will not use, exploit or disclose any of the information you provide.

After the awards any physical and electronic copies of your application are destroyed.

Confidentiality is taken seriously. Judges typically see financials only to understand your business – not to pry. Your sensitive data stays secure and won’t be made public.

Your financial details provide a window into a great deal of information about your business. Without them we simply cannot do a fair assessment. Providing your accounts is an essential part of the application process and if you do not do so your application will not be accepted.

Context is everything. Even if you made a loss, that will not necessarily damage your chances of winning if your business is still being run wisely, there is a good reason for the loss, and you can show that your fortunes are likely to improve. Sometimes a year of loss is deliberate – you may have made large capital purchases or have restructured your business operations. The more you can explain about your situation, the easier it will be for the judges to fairly assess your application.

Even if you simply had a bad year last year it is still worth applying. The likelihood is that most businesses in your category are in the same situation. The profile boost you get from entering may be enough to help improve your situation.

Ask past winners. Awards can unlock media coverage, new clients, investor interest, and a stronger team culture. The difference can be game-changing.

“As a community-focused organisation, we were motivated to enter the North Canterbury Enterprise Awards to celebrate the hard work of our team and volunteers, and to raise awareness of the vital role food rescue plays in our region. The entry process was straightforward and well-supported, giving us the chance to reflect on our journey and articulate our impact. Winning the Community Enterprise Award was a proud moment—it boosted team morale, strengthened community connections, and gave our mission greater visibility. For any local business considering entering, we say go for it! It’s a powerful opportunity to recognise your achievements and to connect with the incredible network of businesses across North Canterbury.”

Fran Cain – Satisfy Food Rescue