categories
We’ve created 15 award categories to reflect the range of incredible small businesses across the Solent — whether you’re a sole trader, creative, retailer, service provider, or running it all from your kitchen table.
You can enter as many categories as you like, as long as your entry is relevant, just submit a new form for each category. Take your time with your answers. One-sentence entries won’t wow the judges. The more detail you give us, the better your chances of standing out.
Before you start, make sure you’ve read the entry rules — it’ll only take a minute, and it’ll help you make the most of your submission.
Best new business
For businesses trading less than 12 months.
solo business star
For those doing it alone.
customer service champion
Are you all about pleasing the customers? This one is for you.
community impact award
Does your business support the local community too?
most RESILIENT business
Has your business overcome hardship? Tell us how you did it!
creative business award
This award is for those who consider themselves to be a creative business - think makers, artists, designers.
Trade award
Plumbers, electricians, plasterers, builders - if you’re a tradie - enter here!
retail hero award
Are you a business with a store? Whether it’s online, on the high street or out of an ice cream van - this one is for you.
health & wellbeing award
This award is for those who are keeping the south coast feeling good and looking good! Beauticians, hairdressers, yoga instructors, PT’s you name it.
family run business
Got your family involved? Enter here!
local legend award
Have you gained a bit of a reputation in the Solent? This is the one to enter.
service business award
This one is for the service based businesses, think IFA’s, bookkeepers, travel agents etc
the grafters award
Are you well known for getting stuck in? Enter the grafters award.
game changer award
Has your business pivoted, created something unique or changed the game for your industry? We want to know about it!
home based business award
Do you run everything from your own home? Baking, packing orders or running a business from your sofa?