The Women Entrepreneur of the Year award honours a visionary woman who has founded or co-founded a business and demonstrated exceptional growth, innovation, and resilience. This category recognises women who have not only built successful ventures but have also created jobs, inspired others, and made meaningful contributions to their industries or communities. These women embody what it means to be a trailblazing entrepreneur—taking risks, overcoming obstacles, and driving transformation through enterprise.
ELIGIBILITY
Open to women-identifying business founders or co-founders
Business must be legally registered and operational for at least 2 years
Open to entrepreneurs across all sectors—tech, fashion, food, wellness, education, social enterprise, etc.
Must be based in or have a significant presence in the UK
Judging Criteria
Business Impact: Revenue growth, scale, sustainability, or user/customer base
Innovation: Unique product, service, or approach to solving market problems
Leadership: Entrepreneurial mindset, team-building, and strategic vision
Market Influence: Competitive position, media presence, or social relevance
QUALITATIVE CRITERIA
Passion for purpose-driven business
Resilience through adversity or setbacks
Thought leadership and mentorship of other women
Positive impact on employees, customers, or community
METRICS
Revenue or profit growth year-over-year
Customer acquisition or retention statistics
Number of jobs created or people employed
Investor backing, funding raised, or awards won
Social or environmental impact metrics (if applicable)
ADDITIONAL CRITERIA
The business must have been launched and led by the nominee herself
Founders of social enterprises or NGOs are also eligible if they show financial sustainability and measurable impact
Prior recognition at regional level does not disqualify national consideration
