Made in Essex: How to Win a King’s Award for Enterprise
With a record-breaking 11 Essex businesses winning the King’s Award for Enterprise in 2024, local companies are proving they have what it takes to compete on a national stage. But what does it really take to win?
Applying for the King’s Award is no small feat.
In this episode of Made in Essex, Jill Willis sits down with Graham Broughton, also known as Mr. King’s Award, to unpack what makes an award-winning application.
With eight years of experience helping businesses secure this prestigious recognition, Graham shares insider knowledge on the process, common mistakes, and the key factors that set successful applicants apart.
Enjoy the full conversation here 👇👇👇
Beyond the Numbers: The Power of Storytelling
Many businesses assume that strong financial growth is enough to win a King’s Award, but Graham explains that the judging panel is looking for much more. “Achieving 175% export growth is impressive, but they dig deeper to see what innovative approach drove that success,” he says.
He recalls a standout winner that gained traction in Japan by developing a strawberry-scented, pink car shampoo to cater to local consumer preferences. “It’s that kind of insight – understanding your market and innovating to meet demand – that really sets applications apart.”
Why SMEs Stand to Gain the Most
A common misconception is that only large corporations win a King’s Award, but Graham reveals that SMEs are the biggest beneficiaries. “The typical winner has fewer than 100 employees and a turnover between £2 million and £10 million,” he explains. “These businesses see the greatest impact, from increased credibility to major export opportunities.”
One Essex-based client, with just 10 staff and £1.6 million in revenue, is already preparing to expand into the U.S. market following their award win. “For smaller businesses, the King’s Award opens doors that would otherwise take years to unlock,” says Graham.
Innovation and Sustainability: The Future of the King’s Award
While international trade has traditionally dominated Essex’s King’s Award wins, Graham predicts a shift towards innovation and sustainability. “Sustainable development is one of the fastest-growing categories, yet only one Essex business won in this area last year,” he points out.
He highlights a Norwich-based manufacturer that built a fully sustainable production facility, achieving carbon neutrality in just four years. Their commitment not only secured a King’s Award but also helped them land a major Ministry of Defence contract. “Businesses that can demonstrate long-term sustainability strategies have a huge opportunity here,” Graham adds.
Graham Broughton was talking to Jill Willis, Director of Attract & Engage and host of the Made in Essex Podcast.
Catch the full episode here or listen wherever you get your podcasts.👇
Keep your eyes peeled for more episodes as Jill invites the county’s most tenacious and successful business leaders to lift the bonnet on their entrepreneurial stories.
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