Categories

Recognising an outstanding individual at the helm of a business, this award honours a leader who demonstrates vision, innovation, and the ability to inspire others. The winner will be a role model for excellence in business leadership.

Judges are looking for:

• Visionary leadership and strategic direction
• Business growth and innovation under their leadership
• Impact on industry and wider business community
• Commitment to developing and inspiring their team
• Personal achievements and leadership style

Honouring the strength of Mid Ulster’s manufacturing sector, this award recognises a company that demonstrates excellence in production, innovation, and efficiency. Judges will look at investment in people, processes, and product development.

Please include evidence of the following in your entry:

• Excellence in production and operational efficiency
• Investment in workforce skills and development
• Innovation in product design or manufacturing processes
• Contribution to the local economy and supply chain
• Export success or market expansion

This award recognises outstanding small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) that show strong financial performance, innovation, and sustainable growth. Judges will assess customer service, business strategy, and impact on the local economy.

Judges are looking for:

• Financial growth and stability
• Business innovation and adaptability
• Market impact and customer satisfaction
• Leadership and team development
• Contribution to the local economy

Recognising businesses that push boundaries, this award honours a company that has introduced groundbreaking products, services, or processes. Judges will look for creativity, problem-solving, and tangible benefits that innovation has brought to the business and its customers.

Judges are looking for:

• Originality and creativity in innovation
• The problem it solves or the market gap it addresses
• Measurable impact on business performance or customer experience
• Investment in research, development, and technology
• Future scalability and sustainability of the innovation

A tribute to family-run enterprises that have successfully blended tradition with modern business acumen. This award acknowledges longevity, strong family values, and a significant contribution to the local economy.

Judges are looking for:

• Strength of family values in business operations
• Business growth and long-term success
• Succession planning and leadership development
• Contribution to the local economy and community
• Adaptation to change while maintaining family heritage

This award celebrates a new business that has made a significant impact within a short time. Open to companies established within the last two years, this category recognises innovation, strong growth potential, and a clear vision for success.

Judges are looking for:

• Business growth and financial performance
• Innovation and uniqueness of the business idea
• Customer engagement and market impact
• Future potential and scalability
• Entrepreneurial vision and leadership

Celebrating businesses that contribute to the growth of Mid Ulster’s tourism industry, this award is open to attractions, accommodations, and service providers that deliver exceptional visitor experiences and promote the region’s heritage.

Judges are looking for:

• Enhancement of visitor experience and customer satisfaction
• Contribution to the promotion of Mid Ulster as a tourism destination
• Innovation in services, experiences, or facilities
• Sustainability and responsible tourism initiatives
• Business growth and economic contribution

This award highlights businesses committed to sustainable practices, environmental responsibility, and long-term ecological impact. From reducing carbon footprints to ethical sourcing, this category showcases companies leading the way in green business.

Judges are looking for:

• Commitment to reducing environmental impact
• Energy efficiency, waste reduction, or sustainable sourcing
• Ethical business practices and corporate responsibility
• Innovation in sustainable solutions
• Evidence of measurable improvements in sustainability

A business is only as strong as its people, and this award celebrates companies that prioritise employee well-being, development, and workplace culture. Judges will look for inspiring leadership, inclusivity, and staff retention.

Please include the following in your entry:

• Commitment to employee development and training
• Workplace culture and staff satisfaction
• Diversity, inclusion, and work-life balance initiatives
• Employee retention and progression opportunities
• Leadership and company vision

This award is decided by the public, recognising the most loved restaurant in Mid Ulster. Whether it’s exceptional food, outstanding service, or a unique dining experience, this category highlights the region’s best culinary establishments. The shortlisted restaurants will be put to the public vote to find our winner for 2025!

Judges are looking for:

• Food quality and presentation
• Customer service excellence
• Unique dining experience
• Ambience and atmosphere
• Value for money
• Customer reviews and testimonials

A brand-new category for 2025, this award champions businesses operating in rural areas that drive economic growth and provide essential services. It celebrates innovation, resilience, and the ability to thrive outside urban centres.

Judges are looking for:

• Innovation in overcoming rural business challenges
• Economic and social contribution to rural communities
• Sustainability and environmental responsibility
• Business growth and future potential
• Commitment to local employment and supply chains

Introducing this new category for 2025, the Employee of the Year award honours an individual who consistently goes above and beyond, demonstrating dedication, initiative, and a positive impact on their workplace and colleagues.

Judges are looking for:

• Exceptional contribution to the workplace
• Dedication to professional growth and development
• Positive impact on colleagues and team morale
• Demonstrated leadership or problem-solving skills
• Going above and beyond their role

Recognising businesses that go beyond profit to support their communities, this award celebrates initiatives that make a real difference, from charitable partnerships to employee volunteerism and social impact projects.

Judges are looking for:

• Positive impact on the local community
• Employee involvement in social initiatives
• Sustainability and ethical business practices
• Partnerships with charities or community groups
• Measurable outcomes of social responsibility efforts