The University is working with partner organisations and businesses around the region to run what it hopes will become an annual celebration of the very best of the business community.
Professor Martin Jones, Vice-Chancellor and Chief Executive of Staffordshire University, said: “I am delighted to announce that Staffordshire University is staging a business awards campaign with the support of 14 sponsor organisations and businesses. This reinforces our commitment to being a Civic University and a ‘Catalyst for Change’ not only for our own students and staff but for the communities within which we are based.
“The Staffordshire University Business Awards will reward the likes of Business of the Year, Small Business of the Year, Apprentice of the Year, Team of the Year and, of course, Entrepreneur of the Year.
“There will be awards for growth, future skills and innovation and there will be lifetime achievement awards for individuals or organisations that have made significant, long-term contributions to the region’s business community.”
Councillor Abi Brown, Leader of headline sponsor Stoke-on-Trent City Council, said: “I am incredibly proud that we are able to sponsor the Staffordshire University Business Awards. I see it as a brilliant opportunity to recognise and celebrate the achievements of both our new and established businesses, and all they have achieved in what has been one of the hardest economic and social periods in recent history.
“One of our Stronger Together priorities is to help business growth so it’s great to see how so many have adapted to the changing landscape to grow business while providing jobs to our residents. I am looking forward to hearing some amazing success stories and wish all the nominees the best of luck.
Alongside headline sponsor Stoke-on-Trent City Council, the sponsors of The Staffordshire University Business Awards are Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce, Beswicks, Stoke-on-Trent City Centre BID, KMF, SGFleet, Stoke-on-Trent College, Waterworld, Plinkfizz, Dains, Rydale Roofing, Brewin Dolphin, Stoke City FC and Netbiz.
The categories are Business of the Year, Small Business of the Year, Entrepreneur of the Year, Apprentice of the Year, Young Business Person of the Year, Team of the Year, The Innovation Award, The Growth Award, The Skills for the Future Award, The Business in the Community Award, and The Lifetime Achievement Award.
To find out more about Staffordshire University Business Awards contact Jennifer.amphlett@staffs.ac.uk