The Suffolk Business Awards 2022 are now open for entries and the Innovation Award recognises businesses, products and services that deliver exciting and inventive solutions.
It is open to both companies and individuals who have developed a ground-breaking product or service, or a bold new approach that has disrupted or improved a traditional market.
“As we emerge from the pandemic, we are seeing a ‘new normal’,” said judge Professor Gurpreet Jagpal, pro vice-chancellor of business and entrepreneurship at the University of Suffolk, which sponsors this category.
“Truly innovative businesses have reacted quickly to the challenges we have faced during this time, and should be recognised for doing so.”
This category is an opportunity for those who have created a product or strategy through either evolutionary or revolutionary innovation, as the judges will be looking at the disruptive elements and agility of the business, and the untapped resources it has utilised.
“Disruption of a traditional marketplace helps potential customers see that market in an entirely different way,” Professor Jagpal explained. “And this opens up the possibility of business growth that would not have occurred without that innovation.
“The process of innovation is all about looking at an existing problem from an entirely different perspective and then creating an effective solution. This award provides an opportunity for firms and their people to receive recognition for their hard work and commitment to innovation across Suffolk, and nationally.”
Professor Jagpal said he hoped the prestige of winning in this category will lead to further growth for the chosen business, and encourage staff to continue innovating.
“But whether you win or make the shortlist, the recognition of the contribution that has been made is important,” he added.
To enter the Innovation Award category, visit the Suffolk Business Awards website.
Meet the sponsor
The University of Suffolk is a transformational university, absorbing the best of university traditions and aligning them to a 21st century audience, relevant to a modern world of employment and entrepreneurship.
The university is dedicated to championing innovation in everything it does, from how it teaches, to its research and enterprise activities and the impact they have on the wider and local community.
Criteria
Judges will be looking for an innovative business which has pioneered a trail-blazing product or service, or innovated disruption within a traditional industry, backed up with a clear and defined strategy for its implementation and growth.
Evidence should be provided of the company’s defined values and mission for change and adaptability, and its understanding of environmental impact and strategy, as well as evidence of its financial growth and investment.
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