20th March 2025

Marshall Arena, Stadium MK
20th March 2025
 - Marshall Arena, Stadium MK

The countdown to the Milton Keynes Business Achievement Awards (MKBAA) 2025 has officially begun, and the spotlight is on local businesses to step forward and showcase their remarkable achievements.

The first round of entries closes on Friday, November 8th, 2024, so make this your moment to shine, whether you’re an entrepreneur, a charity, or a large corporation. Here’s everything you need to know…

Why Enter the MKBAA 2025?
Winning or even being a finalist in the Milton Keynes Business Achievement Awards brings unparalleled recognition and credibility. It amplifies your business’ profile within the community and beyond, highlighting your contributions and successes to potential clients and partners.

Theme for 2025
MKBAA has a proud history of setting ambitious themes that echo the city’s challenges and achievements and the theme for MKBAA 2025 is, “Bridging the Gap: Skills & Learning for Our Future Workforce.” While addressing the critical skills shortage across the city, as highlighted by last year’s SEMLEP Business Survey, which found 45% of businesses struggle to recruit skilled personnel, the theme underscores the importance of skills development, the primary focus remains on celebrating your business achievements, regardless of size or field.

Who Can Enter?
Any organisation or individual with an MK postcode is encouraged to participate. You have the opportunity to enter up to two categories that align with your business’s core strengths. Remember, these awards are targeted at all sectors, including technology, finance, culture, arts, hospitality, and many, many more. It’s about celebrating achievements.

How to Enter?
The entry process is simple. Choose your category and submit a compelling 500-word entry highlighting why your business deserves to win. Once the first round of entries is collected after the 8th November deadline, they will be reviewed by an esteemed independent judging panel, who will shortlist candidates for the second stage which will be announced ahead of the second stage of entries opening on the 27th November. The deadline for the second round to be submitted is 6th January.

Benefits of Participation
Past winners and finalists have experienced significant benefits, from increased visibility to enhanced reputation and new opportunities. This year, MKBAA continues its tradition of setting ambitious themes, offering a platform for dialogue and action in overcoming local challenges.

Act Now!
With just weeks left until the entry deadline for the first round, the time to act is now. Make your mark in the business community, gain recognition for your hard work, and inspire others by entering MKBAA 2025. For more information on how to enter and to submit your application, go to https://mkbaa.co.uk/award-categories/

Key Dates

– The first round of entries will close on Friday 8th November
– Second stage of entries will open on Wednesday 27th November
– Second stage entries will close on Monday 6th January 2025
– Finalists party will take place on Thursday 13th February 2025
– MKBAA 2025 will take place on Thursday 20th March 2025

Award Categories

Any organisation or individual with an MK postcode can enter a maximum of two categories:

• Celebrating Diversity
• Charity of the Year
• Design and Creativity
• Culture, Arts, and Heritage
• Innovation and Technology
• New Business
• Customer Service
• Leisure, Entertainment, and Hospitality
• Professional Services
• Business Impact in the Community
• Small and Medium Business
• Micro Business
• Entrepreneur of the Year
• New for 2025 *** Manufacturing and Supply Chain
• Built Environment (Property and Construction)
• New for 2025 *** Skills & Learning
• Outstanding Contribution

Sponsorship opportunities are now available for 2025, interested organisations should email sponsorship@mkbaa.co.uk for further details.