Application deadline extended for Queen’s Awards for Enterprise

Small Business Minister Paul Scully has announced that the deadline to submit an application to the Queen’s Awards for Enterprise has been extended to 22nd September.

In an open letter to businesses, Paul Scully confirmed the deadline extension, referencing the challenging 18 months of the Covid-19 pandemic, in addition to 2022 being Her Majesty’s Platinum Jubilee year, marking Queen Elizabeth II’s record seventieth year on the throne.

In his letter, Small Business Minister Paul Scully said:

“The last 18 months has been an unbelievably testing period for businesses up and down the country, but it has been truly inspiring to see the creativity, dynamism and resilience of entrepreneurs shining through despite the challenge of the pandemic.

“We believe that there is no better time than now to celebrate the incredible achievements of UK business owners.

“This is why we have extended the deadline for applications to the Queen’s Awards for Enterprise 2022 until midday on Wednesday 22 September 2021. We want as many businesses as possible to have the chance to apply and be recognised for their achievements.

“With Her Majesty ’s Platinum Jubilee taking place next year, this is the ideal time to throw your hat in the ring for a prestigious Queen’s Award.”

Organisations can apply across four categories: International Trade, Innovation, Sustainable Development and Promoting Opportunity (through social mobility). Each Award category has its own additional eligibility criteria. A full list of the eligibility criteria can be found here.

In the 2021 awards, over 90% of winners with SMEs, including 44 microbusinesses (fewer than 10 employees). BEIS are keen for more organisations than ever to apply this year from all sectors and all regions of the UK, particularly given the challenges that businesses have faced due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Further information and details of how to apply can be found on the government website.