Businesses across the West Midlands are being urged to seize the opportunity to secure one of the UK's most prestigious business accolades, with just one month before entries close for the 2027 King's Awards for Enterprise.
Applications must be submitted by Tuesday, September 8, with organisations of all sizes and sectors encouraged to put themselves forward for what is widely regarded as the UK's highest official honour for business excellence.
This year introduces a significant new category – Young Founder – recognising outstanding entrepreneurs aged 18 to 30 who are actively leading successful businesses. The category joins the existing awards for Innovation, International Trade, Sustainable Development and Promoting Opportunity through Social Mobility.
Previous recipients - including 2026 recipients Birmingham-based hydraPower Dynamics and Sandwell Colleges - say that winning a King's Award provides national recognition, increased commercial value, enhanced international credibility, the ability to open doors to new business opportunities, valuable media exposure and improved staff morale.
Derrick Anderson CBE, Lord-Lieutenant of the West Midlands, said: "The King's Awards for Enterprise represent the highest recognition a UK business can receive and showcase the very best of British enterprise. While the application process is rigorous, businesses consistently tell us that preparing their submission is a valuable exercise, helping them reflect on their achievements, strengths and future ambitions.
"These Awards are open to businesses of every size and from every sector, and I am particularly pleased to see the introduction of the Young Founder category, which will recognise the next generation of entrepreneurial talent. We know the West Midlands is home to outstanding businesses and innovators, and I would encourage as many as possible to put themselves forward before the September deadline."
Patrick Browne, managing director of hydraPower Dynamics, said: "Winning a King's Award for Enterprise has been a tremendous achievement for our business, recognising both our commitment to manufacturing excellence and the investment we have made in developing future talent through education. It has reinforced the value of our work and the partnerships that underpin it. I would encourage any business that believes it is making a real difference to put itself forward – the application process is well worthwhile and the recognition can have a lasting impact."
Lisa Capper MBE, CEO and principal of The Sandwell Colleges, said: “Receiving a King's Award for Enterprise was an incredibly proud moment for everyone at Sandwell College. It has allowed us to showcase the strength of our partnerships with business in creating opportunities for young people and getting them into skilled employment. If your organisation is delivering excellence, innovation or positive social impact, don't hesitate to apply. It is a fantastic way to showcase your achievements and inspire your staff, partners and wider community."
Organisations of all sizes and sectors are eligible to apply, provided they meet the entry criteria. Entry is free, and businesses may submit applications in more than one category.
Now in their 60th year, the Awards have recognised more than 8,000 outstanding UK businesses since they were established in 1965 and continue to celebrate organisations that demonstrate excellence, innovation and positive impact.
Support and advice are available from the West Midlands Lieutenancy on 0121 222 5040 or by email at office@wmlieutenancy.org. Full details of the Awards, eligibility criteria and application process are available on the Government website https://www.gov.uk/kings-awards-for-enterprise.
