Singapore's business community is renowned for its excellence and innovation, and we continue to celebrate the companies and individuals who are driving this forward. The Annual Business Awards returned for the 24th year during 2023, with entries running from April until September and a Gala Awards Ceremony held on 12th October. With categories covering standout employers, leading innovation, diversity, sustainability, small businesses, individual achievements, young professionals, the impact of UK businesses in Singapore and more, there was an opportunity for recognition for everyone.
For the first time this year, we also recognised Highly Commended finalists, alongside the winners.
We were delighted to be joined on the evening by Minister Gan Kim Yong, Minister for Trade and Industry, and Her Excellency Kara Owen CMG CVO, British High Commissioner to Singapore, along with colleagues from Singapore's Economic Development Board and Ministry of Manpower, and the UK's Department for Business and Trade.
Please refer to the below descriptions of each category.
UK Impact in Singapore
The UK Impact in Singapore award is a unique segment of the Annual business Awards that looks to honour and celebrate British businesses that have made a significant positive impact on Singapore's economy and community, highlighting their achievements and inspiring others to contribute to the continued growth and prosperity of Singapore. This is the only category which features live voting by audience members at the Gala Awards Ceremony.
This category focuses on businesses that have shown outstanding performance, innovation, and leadership in contributing to the growth and development of Singapore's economy, as well as making a positive difference to the local community.
Entries to the UK Impact in Singapore category will display the remarkable achievements of UK businesses that have successfully established their presence in Singapore and have made a tangible impact on various aspects of the country’s economy. This can include impressive revenue growth, job creation, export and import activities, investments, collaborations with local partners, and other measurable contributions to the overall economic landscape of Singapore.
Moreover, entries in this category will also highlight how these UK businesses have positively impacted the local community in Singapore. This can include corporate social responsibility initiatives, philanthropic efforts, environmental sustainability practices, diversity and inclusion programs, and other community engagement activities that have brought about positive change and benefited the residents of Singapore. The entries will be evaluated based on the strength of the impact demonstrated by the UK businesses in their operations in Singapore.
Finalists in this category will be approached by the Chamber to arrange an onsite video recording used for the live voting on the evening.
Technological/Digital Impact of the Year - sponsored by XCL World Academy
The Technological/Digital Impact of the Year category recognises and celebrates businesses that have made a significant impact through technological or digital innovation. This category focuses on businesses that have identified a problem, created innovative solutions, successfully delivered those solutions, and achieved outstanding performance in using technology or digital advancements to drive positive change and results.
Entries to this category will highlight how businesses have used technology or digital solutions to address a specific problem or challenge in their industry or market. This can include identifying pain points, gaps in the market, inefficiencies in processes, or other obstacles that hinder business operations or customer experiences.
The entries will highlight how these businesses have creatively developed and implemented technological or digital solutions to overcome the identified problem. This can include the use of innovative technologies, software applications, data analytics, automation, artificial intelligence, or other innovative approaches to develop solutions that are novel, effective, and impactful.
Entries in this category will also highlight the successful delivery and implementation of these solutions, including the strategies, methodologies, and execution plans used to deploy the technology or digital innovation. This can include project management, change management, user adoption strategies, integration with existing systems, scalability, and other factors that show the successful implementation and adoption of the technological or digital solution.
Finally, entries will display the performance and results achieved through technological or digital innovation. This can include measurable outcomes such as increased efficiency, cost savings, revenue growth, improved customer experiences, enhanced competitiveness, expanded market share, or other tangible impacts that demonstrate the success and effectiveness of the solution.
The entries will be evaluated based on the level of innovation, effectiveness, scalability, and overall impact of the technological or digital solution, as well as the successful delivery and performance achieved.
Business Transformation of the Year
The Business Transformation of the Year category recognises and celebrates businesses that have undergone a significant transformation in their operations or products, resulting in a cost-effective, agile, or future-proof business model. This category focuses on businesses that have successfully transformed their operations or products to adapt to changing market dynamics, optimise processes, increase efficiency, enhance agility, and position themselves for sustainable success in the future.
Entries to this category will display how businesses have identified the need for transformation and have implemented strategic initiatives to achieve a successful transformation. This can include changes in business processes, organisational structure, technology adoption, product development, market entry strategies, or other innovative approaches to drive business transformation.
The entries will be evaluated based on the level of transformation achieved, the impact on business operations or products, the cost-effectiveness, agility, and futureproofing of the business model, as well as the successful execution and outcomes of the transformation initiatives.
Sustainability Champion of the Year - sponsored by Singapore Aero Engine Services Private Ltd
The Sustainability Champion of the Year category is a prestigious segment of the Annual Business Awards that recognises and celebrates businesses who have demonstrated exemplary commitment and progress towards sustainability in Singapore. This category focuses on businesses that have made measurable progress and impacts in sustainability initiatives, showcasing their efforts to achieve sustainability goals and drive positive change in Singapore's business landscape.
Entries to this category will highlight how businesses have championed sustainability as a core part of their operations, products, and corporate values, and have made measurable progress towards sustainability goals. This can include initiatives related to environmental conservation, social responsibility, ethical practices, and other sustainability-focused areas that contribute to a more sustainable business ecosystem in Singapore.
The entries will highlight the specific sustainability initiatives implemented by the businesses, such as reducing carbon emissions, conserving energy or water, promoting waste reduction or recycling, enhancing supply chain sustainability or other initiatives that contribute to sustainability in Singapore.
Entries in this category will also show the measurable progress and impacts achieved through these sustainability initiatives. This can include quantifiable data, metrics, and performance indicators that display the effectiveness and success of the sustainability efforts, such as reduction in greenhouse gas emissions, energy or water consumption, waste diversion rates, community engagement outcomes, or other tangible impacts that reflect the positive sustainability contributions of the business.
Furthermore, entries will showcase how businesses have integrated sustainability into their overall corporate strategy, operations, and culture, and how these efforts have resulted in positive change and progress towards sustainability goals in Singapore. This can include alignment with relevant local sustainability frameworks, partnerships with local stakeholders, employee engagement initiatives, or other strategies that demonstrate the commitment of the business to sustainability and its impact on the local business ecosystem.
The entries will be evaluated based on the level of commitment, progress, and impacts made towards sustainability in Singapore, as well as the effectiveness, innovation, and outcomes of the sustainability initiatives. Please avoid supplying documents relating only to global/HQ initiatives.
Diversity & Inclusion Champion of the Year - sponsored by Barclays
The Diversity and Inclusion Champion of the Year category recognises and celebrates businesses in Singapore that have shown outstanding commitment and progress towards promoting diversity and inclusion in their organisations. This category is designed to highlight businesses that have made measurable progress and impacts in fostering diversity and inclusion in the workplace, highlighting their efforts to create an inclusive and equitable workplace environment in Singapore.
Entries to this category will display how businesses have championed diversity and inclusion as core values and have implemented initiatives to promote diversity in their workforce, leadership, and business practices. This can include initiatives related to gender, race, ethnicity, age, religion, sexual orientation, disability, or other dimensions of diversity, and how these initiatives have contributed to a more inclusive workplace culture and business ecosystem in Singapore.
The entries will highlight the specific diversity and inclusion initiatives implemented by the businesses, such as diversity recruitment strategies, inclusive talent development programs, diversity and inclusion training, employee resource groups, supplier diversity programs, diversity in leadership initiatives, or other measures that promote diversity and inclusion in the organisation.
Moreover, entries in this category will demonstrate the measurable progress and impacts achieved through these diversity and inclusion initiatives. This can include quantifiable data, metrics, and performance indicators that showcase the effectiveness and success of the initiatives, such as workforce diversity metrics, representation in leadership positions, employee engagement and satisfaction scores, or other tangible impacts that reflect the positive contributions of the business towards diversity and inclusion in Singapore.
Furthermore, entries will highlight how businesses have embedded diversity and inclusion into their overall corporate culture and practices, and how these efforts have resulted in positive change and progress towards diversity and inclusion goals in the local context. This can include strategies to promote inclusive leadership, foster an inclusive workplace culture, create equal opportunities for all employees, and promote diversity and inclusion in external partnerships and collaborations.
The entries will be evaluated based on the level of commitment, progress, and impacts made towards diversity and inclusion in Singapore, as well as the effectiveness, innovation, and outcomes of the initiatives. Please avoid supplying documents relating only to global/HQ initiatives.
Start-up of the Year
The Start-Up of the Year Category is an exciting segment of the Annual Business Awards that recognises and celebrates small businesses in Singapore that have achieved remarkable growth, secured major customer wins, created significant impact, and generated job opportunities in the short span of five years since their establishment. This category recognises the innovation, dedication, and entrepreneurial spirit of start-ups, and encourages their continued success in driving economic growth and innovation in Singapore's business ecosystem.
Entries to this category will highlight the achievements and milestones of the start-ups, including their growth trajectory, customer acquisition, and market impact. This can include information on revenue growth, market share, customer testimonials, successful product launches, or other indicators of the start-up's market success and potential for future growth.
Additionally, entries will showcase the start-up's major customer wins, highlighting notable contracts, partnerships, or collaborations that have contributed to their business success. This can include partnerships with key industry players, significant customer acquisitions, or strategic collaborations that have propelled the start-up's growth and market positioning.
Furthermore, entries will highlight the impact created by the start-up in the local business ecosystem, community, or industry. This can include information on the unique value proposition of the start-up's products or services, the societal or environmental impact of their business model, or any other contributions that show the start-up's positive influence and value to the broader community. Moreover, entries will highlight the job creation impact of the start-up, showcasing the number of jobs created directly or indirectly because of their business operations.
The entries will be evaluated based on the start-up's achievements, growth, impact, and job creation potential, as well as the innovation, scalability, and sustainability of their business model.
Companies must have established a presence in Singapore within the five years prior to the launch of this year's Awards for entries.
UK Exporter of the Year
The UK Exporter of the Year Category celebrates businesses based in the UK or Singapore that have excelled in exporting goods to Singapore and their contributions to the bilateral trade between the UK and Singapore.
Entries to this category will highlight the export success of the UK-based businesses, including the volume and value of goods exported to Singapore, the growth trajectory of their export business, and the strategies employed to penetrate the Singapore market. This can include information on the export performance, market share, customer testimonials, successful market entry strategies, or other indicators of the exporter's market success and expansion in Singapore.
Additionally, entries will highlight the distribution or in-market operations of the UK-based businesses. This can include information on local partnerships or collaborations, investment in local infrastructure or facilities, establishment of local teams or offices, or other efforts made to build a strong in-market presence and deliver value to consumers in Singapore.
Entries will highlight the innovative approaches or strategies employed by the UK-based businesses to overcome challenges, penetrate the Singapore market, and establish a strong export business. This can include information on unique value propositions, market adaptation strategies, product localisation efforts, or other innovative approaches that have contributed to the exporter's success in Singapore.
Companies must be currently active exporters to Singapore from the UK.
Employer of the Year
The Employer of the Year category at the Annual Business Awards recognises businesses that go above and beyond in their commitment to investing in their people. These exceptional companies understand that their employees are their greatest assets, and they prioritise creating a supportive, inclusive, and empowering work environment that fosters employee retention and career growth.
Entries demonstrate outstanding efforts in empowering their employees and promoting their well-being. They have implemented innovative policies, programs, and practices that prioritise the growth and development of their workforce, resulting in a highly engaged and motivated team. They have implemented comprehensive training and development programs, mentoring initiatives, and opportunities for skill-building and advancement. These businesses have fostered a culture of inclusivity, diversity, and equality, and have implemented policies that promote work-life balance and employee well-being.
Moreover, these outstanding employers have recognised the value of their employees' contributions and have created a positive and supportive work environment that encourages collaboration, creativity, and innovation. They have shown exceptional leadership in nurturing talent, providing feedback and recognition, and creating opportunities for career advancement and growth.
Their employees are not just a workforce, but a valued and integral part of their business success. These companies have set a high standard for excellence in employee empowerment and have positively impacted their employees' lives, as well as the overall success and reputation of their business.
Customer Service Provider of the Year
The Customer Service Provider of the Year category at the Annual Business Awards honours businesses that prioritise their customers and excel in providing exceptional customer service. These companies understand that outstanding customer service is crucial to their success and have gone above and beyond in delivering unparalleled service to their customers.
The entries for this category showcase businesses that have implemented customer-centric strategies and practices, resulting in high customer satisfaction and loyalty. These companies have established a customer-first culture and have made customer service a top priority across all levels of their organization.
Entrants have shown exceptional performance in measuring customer satisfaction and have achieved high Net Promoter Scores (NPS) or other relevant customer service metrics. They have implemented robust feedback and monitoring mechanisms to continuously assess and improve their customer service performance.
Moreover, these outstanding customer service providers have developed innovative solutions and strategies to meet and exceed customer expectations. They have implemented efficient and responsive customer service channels, personalised approaches, and prompt resolution of customer inquiries and complaints. These companies have shown exceptional responsiveness, empathy, and professionalism in their customer interactions, creating a positive and memorable customer experience.
The entries for Customer Service Provider of the Year reflect companies that have gone the extra mile in building lasting relationships with their customers. They have shown exceptional commitment to understanding their customers' needs, preferences, and feedback, and have used this information to continuously improve their products, services, and customer interactions.
Future Leader of the Year
This category celebrates young professionals who are making a significant impact within the Singapore business community. The category is open to individuals working for a Singapore-based employer who have graduated from a degree within the 3 years prior to awards entry. Entrants can be either nominated by their employer/organisation or self-nominated.
The entries for this prestigious category showcase young leaders who have demonstrated exceptional leadership skills, innovation, and a strong vision for the future. These individuals have shown remarkable achievements and contributions to their respective fields and are expected to achieve remarkable things in their future careers.
The nominees for Future Leader of the Year have displayed outstanding leadership qualities, such as strategic thinking, effective decision-making, and the ability to inspire and motivate others. They have demonstrated innovation in their approach to problem-solving and have shown a deep understanding of business challenges and opportunities.
Moreover, these exceptional candidates have made a positive impact on multiple levels, whether it be within their organization, their industry, or the broader community. They have shown a commitment to driving positive change, implementing innovative solutions, and leading initiatives that contribute to the betterment of their organisation and society at large.
Individual Contribution of the Year
The Individual Contribution of the Year category at the Annual Business Awards recognises individuals who have made a significant impact on multiple levels within the Singapore business community. This category is open to individuals who work for Singapore-based companies or organisations, and nominations can be submitted by their employer/organisation or through self-nomination.
The entries showcase individuals who have proven exceptional performance, dedication, and contributions in their respective roles. These individuals have gone above and beyond in their work, making a positive impact on multiple levels, whether it be within their organization, their industry, or the broader community.
The candidates have displayed outstanding achievements and contributions in their areas of expertise. They have consistently delivered exceptional results, showing exemplary performance and commitment to excellence in their work. They have shown leadership qualities, innovation, and a proactive approach to driving positive change.
Moreover, these exceptional individuals have made a significant impact beyond their immediate roles. They have contributed to the growth and success of their organization, leading initiatives, and implementing innovative solutions that have resulted in tangible improvements. They have also shown a commitment to giving back to the community through corporate social responsibility initiatives, philanthropic efforts, or volunteer work.
Our Annual Business Awards judges are at the height of their industry to ensure our winners are the best in class. The British Chamber of Commerce maintains a formal judging process as below.
Entries
The Annual Business Awards opens for entries on 24th April 2023 and closes on 18th August 2023 when the judging process begins. All entries are eligibility checked to ensure they meet the required criteria of their category before being benchmarked for shortlisting.
Shortlisting
Our Annual Business Awards shortlisting committee consider all entries against the criteria of each category and independently judge each entry on a scoring basis. The highest scoring entries will be shortlisted as finalists in their category. Up to 5 companies may be shortlisted in each category.
Winner Selection
Our expert judges consider all shortlisted entries and make their final winner selection in each category with the exception of the UK Impact in Singapore category, which will be voted for by the audience at the Virtual Awards Ceremony. The judge’s decision is final. A Winner and Highly Commended entry will be recognised.
Our Judging Panel
