In a decade-long tradition of honouring outstanding businesses, the Milton Keynes Business Achievement Awards (MKBAA) are back for its 10th anniversary edition. This milestone not only reflects a decade of acknowledging business accomplishments but also mirrors the parallel journey of growth and prosperity within the city of Milton Keynes.
Established as the most prestigious business awards ceremony in Milton Keynes, MKBAA has evolved over the past 10 years to recognise the achievements of businesses spanning across a number of sectors, from innovative startups to established corporations and impactful charities. This annual event has played a pivotal role in tracking the city’s impressive progression, aligning its themes with the heartbeat of Milton Keynes each year. Themes such as ‘50 Years of Growth’, ‘International Trade’, ‘Education, Training and Skills Development’ and ‘Celebrating Diversity’ have encapsulated the essence of the city’s evolution.
This year, MKBAA sets the stage with the theme: ‘Forever Innovative: Milton Keynes Leading the UK’s high-tech future’, acknowledging the city’s status as a powerhouse for technology and innovation.
The event will take place 21st March 2024 in the Marshall Arena at Stadium MK.
What it means to win an MKBAA award
Over the years hundreds of businesses have been recognised, and past winners have been sharing their recollections on what winning an MKBAA award has meant for them and their organisations:
Shalom Lloyd MBE, Founder and Managing Director of Naturally Tiwa Skincare and eMQT, won Best New Business in 2019, before going on to achieve double success in 2022 by scooping the Entrepreneur of the Year, and Business of the Year awards.
Shalom comments: “Entering, and subsequently winning an MKBAA award in one of the most diverse, innovative, and energetic business environments in the country has not only raised the profile of our businesses but has recognised our organisations as key contributors to this dynamic city and environment.
“Winning has meant that our community sees and respects us as credible and trustworthy businesses. It has also helped position our businesses positively in the eyes of our customers, our suppliers, and our peers in our industry.”
Vanessa Holmes, Associate Director of Milton Keynes Hospital Charity, comments: “We were ‘Charity of the Year’ award winners in 2019 and it was incredible. Not just because of how winning an MKBAA raised the profile of the charity; it also increased our credibility and opened up a brand new network through the Milton Keynes Business Leaders Partnership. The win was also great for the team. We all worked so hard, and to get that recognition was a huge morale booster – it made us feel valued.”
Some businesses, following a successful win, have subsequently gone on to show their support for the awards and become sponsors, as Nick Lanigan, Managing Director of Clearview Intelligence points out: “Having been lucky enough to be the recipient of a Milton Keynes Business Achievement Award we recognise the importance of supporting other local businesses at this highly respected event, and we are delighted to be sponsoring the Professional Services category of MKBAA 2024.
“We chose this category as it respects one of our core values as the Clearview Intelligence culture is one of collaboration with clients, partners, and our wider supply chain.”
Nick continues: “The Milton Keynes Business Achievement Awards have not only provided Clearview Intelligence with an opportunity to enhance its reputation and presence in the local community and Milton Keynes area, but it has also facilitated valuable networking with local customers, clients, and suppliers. The award ceremony itself is just one aspect of this significant event.”
Sponsor of the coveted trophies this year is SJD Construction and Engineering, a 2019 winner. A spokesperson commented: “Milton Keynes is simply one of the best places to operate a business in the UK and these awards are such a great way to recognise the remarkable spirit, achievement and innovation in the local community. Winning in the Small Business category in 2019 had such a positive effect on our business and has helped our rapid growth.”
Tracking the transformation of Milton Keynes
Milton Keynes itself has undergone a significant transformation, from celebrating 50 years since becoming a ‘New Town’ in 2017 to achieving city status in 2022. The city’s business community is thriving, making it a hotspot for innovation and new startups. In a testament to its economic prowess, Milton Keynes topped the UK Competitive Index in 2023, a remarkable ascent from 43rd position in 2013, just ahead of the launch of MKBAA.
Nicholas Mann, Chair of the Milton Keynes Business Leaders Partnership, organisers of MKBAA comments: “I am delighted with the success of the awards and to be at the helm as we reach this significant milestone. MKBAA 2024 will not only symbolise a decade of recognition but also serve as a testament to the dynamic and thriving business environment within Milton Keynes.
With categories that have diversified to adapt to the changing business landscape, MKBAA is set to continue its legacy of acknowledging excellence and fostering a spirit of innovation in the city for years to come.”
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