Your 2025 Business Awards Entry Checklist

Entering a business award can significantly boost your company’s profile, credibility and business opportunities. However, the process of award writing and preparing a winning entry requires attention to detail, organisation, and strategic thinking. To help you to enter business awards in 2025, below is a detailed checklist to guide you through the process of entering business awards. This checklist ensures that you meet the necessary criteria, submit a compelling entry, and maximize your chances of success.

1. Complete the nomination form

Have you completed the online nomination form? ☐ Yes ☐ No It’s important to begin the process by thoroughly filling out the nomination form. Ensure all required fields are completed with accurate information to avoid delays or disqualification.

2. Select the right category

Have you selected the most appropriate entry category? ☐ Yes ☐ No Carefully review all available categories and select those that best fit your business achievements and strengths for the previous year. Picking the right category increases your chances of standing out to the judges. You can usually choose more than one category.

3. Check the entry criteria

Do you meet all the award entry criteria? ☐ Yes ☐ No Each award has specific criteria that your business must meet. For example, number of years in business, time period (usually the 12 months before entries close), size of business. Double-check the eligibility requirements to ensure your company qualifies before proceeding.

4. Time management in award writing

Do you have enough time to write the entry before the closing date? ☐ Yes ☐ No Award entries take longer to prepare than anticipated. Plan your award writing process ahead, giving yourself ample time to craft a well-thought-out submission before the deadline.

5. Word count and page limits

Are there word count or page limits? ☐ Yes ☐ No Pay close attention to any word count or page restrictions in the entry guidelines. Ensure your submission adheres to these limits. If you don’t, you may be disqualified. Or, even if your entry is accepted, the content that goes beyond the page or word count limits will not be taken into account by the judges.

6. Understand what winning means

Have you considered what winning would mean for your business? ☐ Yes ☐ No Reflect on the potential impact of winning the award on your company. Consider how the recognition could enhance your reputation, attract new business, or inspire your team. Consider too how you will maximise your success. Whether you win or are shortlisted for your categories or category, you have a great marketing opportunity.

7. Highlight innovations and initiatives in award writing

Have you considered the innovations or initiatives that your business has introduced during the qualifying period? ☐ Yes ☐ No Judges look for businesses that are innovative and forward-thinking. In award writing, do not forget to showcase any new ideas, products, or processes your company has developed that set you apart from the competition.

8. Community contributions

Do you have examples of community contributions such as charity fundraising, pro bono work, or mentoring? ☐ Yes ☐ No Many awards value companies that contribute positively to their communities. In award writing, do not forget to highlight any social responsibility initiatives or philanthropic activities your business has undertaken.

9. Gather evidence of achievements

Do you have facts or figures to use as evidence for your achievements? ☐ Yes ☐ No Strong entries are supported by concrete evidence. Gather statistics, metrics, and measurable results that demonstrate the success and impact of your business efforts.

10. Attach required documents

Are attachments needed? ☐ Yes ☐ No Some awards require supporting documents such as a short video, testimonials, reports, or portfolios. Ensure you include all necessary attachments to strengthen your submission.

11. Accountant’s letter or financial statements

Do you need a letter from your accountant or your financial statements? ☐ Yes ☐ No Some awards require validation of your financial data. Check whether this is necessary for your entry and arrange for the documentation early on.

12. Insert references in your award writing

Do you need to include references? ☐ Yes ☐ No Some award entries may ask for references from clients, partners, or stakeholders. Identify appropriate referees and request their testimonials in advance to avoid last-minute rushes.

13. Review the draft

Do you have someone available to give an independent review of your draft award entry? ☐ Yes ☐ No Before submitting, it’s essential to have another person review your draft. A second set of eyes can catch mistakes or suggest improvements that you might have missed.

14. Verify word count compliance in your award writing

Have you checked that your award entry complies with the word count limits? ☐ Yes ☐ No After drafting your entry, recheck the word count to ensure it complies with the guidelines.

15. Proofread the final draft 

Do you have someone available to proofread the final draft? ☐ Yes ☐ No Typos, grammatical errors, and unclear sentences can undermine an otherwise strong submission. Ensure the final draft is professionally proofread to present a polished, error-free entry.

16. Understand the submission process

Do you know how the award entry is to be submitted? ☐ Yes ☐ No Lastly, ensure you understand the submission process. Is the entry submitted online, by email, or via physical mail? Confirm the submission format and follow the instructions carefully to avoid any mishaps.

Final thoughts on award writing

Entering a business award can be a powerful way to gain recognition, showcase your achievements, and boost your company’s profile. However, success depends on thorough preparation, attention to detail, and adherence to the award’s guidelines. By following this checklist, you can confidently navigate the entry process and present your business in the best possible light. Take the time to reflect on your company’s strengths, gather the necessary supporting evidence, and craft a compelling story that highlights your business’s unique achievements. Best of luck with your award submission!

For help with your business award entry and award writing

Proof Communications has a whole team of successful, experienced business award writers standing by ready to assist you. Get in touch today or call us on +61 2 8036 5532 or 0448 566 377. We look forward to speaking with you soon.