Applications open for prestigious enterprise awards

Applications are now open for the prestigious annual Cheshire High Sheriff’s Awards which celebrate the initiative, innovation and impact of the region’s enterprises - and the people behind them.

Now in their 15th year, the Cheshire High Sheriff’s Awards for Enterprise, held in partnership with the University of Chester, have established a reputation as the premier business awards for Cheshire, Halton and Warrington.

After moving online in 2020, and also reflecting on the impact of the pandemic on the business and wider community, new categories have been added for 2021/22 and the winners will be announced at a reception at Churchill House, Queen’s Park, home to the University’s Business School, next Spring. 

Dr Gyles Brandreth, celebrated author, broadcaster, and Chancellor of the University of Chester, will be the Master of Ceremonies for the evening. 

Robert Mee DL, High Sheriff of Cheshire 2021/22 said: “Roles on several economic growth boards have allowed me to meet many of our terrific businesses and see what a great, diverse business community we have.

“It is important to celebrate their achievements and these Awards are a wonderful way to champion enterprises and their staff in Cheshire, Halton and Warrington.

“The last 18 months have also highlighted the vital role we can all play in helping our voluntary sector as they provide vital services to our residents, which is why we have included an accolade linked to the third sector and a community business award.

“I urge people to consider the details of these prestigious Awards and apply in one or more of the categories.”

The High Sheriff added a thankyou to the companies and organisations sponsoring the Awards, who he said recognised the spirit of enterprise and development in the region, and made the celebration possible.

Kirstie Simpson, Associate Professor and Deputy Dean of Chester Business School, added: “The High Sheriff’s Awards for Enterprise are well established within our region and culminate in an important date in the business year.  

“The University supports and encourages a shared sense of endeavour and purpose; it is a privilege to work in partnership to present the Awards and recognise the stand-out organisations that make up our innovative and productive region.” 

The Awards highlight outstanding achievement by local companies across 10 different categories. Apart from the Cheshire and Warrington Business Leader Award which is open to businesses of any size, applications are invited from businesses with fewer than 250 employees.

The categories are:

• High Sheriff’s Award for Excellence in Enterprise, sponsored by the University;
• High Sheriff’s Award for Outstanding Community Engagement, sponsored by Encirc;
• High Sheriff’s Award for Best Sustainable Business Practice, sponsored by EA Technology;
• Young Business Person of the Year, sponsored by Mornflake;
• Apprentice of the Year, sponsored by Barlows;
• High Sheriff’s Award for Digital Innovation;
• High Sheriff’s Survive and Thrive Award for Charities;
• High Sheriff’s Award for Exceptional Start-Up, sponsored by Warrington Borough Council;
• High Sheriff’s Award for Outstanding Family Business, sponsored by Roberts Bakery;
• Award for Outstanding Cheshire and Warrington Business Leader.

To enter the High Sheriff’s Awards for Enterprise 2021/22, please complete an entry form and submit it with a supporting statement of no more than 500 words on why you are entering that category and your relevant business achievements in that area.

Forms are available from, and must be submitted online at:

https://www1.chester.ac.uk/high-sheriffs-awards-enterprise

The deadline for entries is Friday December 10, 2021 at 23.59pm. All entrants will be contacted after the closing date and informed of their status.

A panel of judges made up of senior members of the business community will shortlist in each category and shortlisted businesses will be invited to film a short clip to be shown at the Awards evening on April 7, 2022. All shortlisted finalists will receive two complimentary tickets to attend the Awards evening.

For further information, please visit@

https://www1.chester.ac.uk/high-sheriffs-awards-enterprise

or contact Jenni Davies at events@chester.ac.uk or 01244 511344.

Pictured - Robert Mee DL, High Sheriff of Cheshire 2021/22.