This award is proudly sponsored by The Circle

The "Indigenous Business of the Year" award recognises the entrepreneurship, cultural richness, and economic contributions of Indigenous-owned enterprises. Celebrating their innovation, connection to land, and community-focused approach, this award acknowledges businesses committed to preserving Indigenous heritage while driving economic growth.

Criteria

• Information that demonstrates excellence in the category
• Examples of the benefit the business brings to the community sector in which they operate
• Information that demonstrates innovation and creativity
• Information that demonstrates strong financial performance (including grants and other funding)
• Information that demonstrates growth (i.e personal development, professional achievement, organisational expansion and societal impact)
• Details regarding recognition given by the industry, community, customers or suppliers
• Upload any supporting documentation

This award is proudly sponsored by Qantas

For businesses with less than < 20 FTE

The "Small Business of the Year" award honours the entrepreneurial spirit and outstanding achievements of a dynamic small-scale business. Celebrating innovation, dedication, and adaptability, this accolade recognises the remarkable impact and growth potential of small businesses. Emphasising leadership, customer focus, and innovative practices, this award highlights the essential role played by small businesses in driving economic vibrancy, fostering innovation, and contributing to their communities.

Criteria

• Information that demonstrates excellence in the category
• Examples of the benefit the business brings to the community sector in which they operate
• Information that demonstrates innovation and creativity
• Information that demonstrates strong financial performance (including grants and other funding)
• Information that demonstrates growth (i.e personal development, professional achievement, organisational expansion and societal impact)
• Details regarding recognition given by the industry, community, customers or suppliers
• Upload any supporting documentation

This award is proudly sponsored by Careerlink People Solutions

Businesses with 20 – 200 FTE

The "Medium Business of the Year" award celebrates the achievements of a thriving enterprise that embodies resilience, innovation, and impactful growth within its sector. Recognising the significant strides made by medium-sized companies, this award honours those demonstrating exceptional leadership, sustainable practices, and a strong commitment to driving industry progress and community engagement.

Criteria

• Information that demonstrates excellence in the category
• Examples of the benefit the business brings to the community, sector in which they operate.
• Information that demonstrates innovation and creativity
• Information that demonstrates strong financial performance (including grants and other funding)
• Information that demonstrates growth (i.e personal development, professional achievement, organisational expansion and societal impact)
• Details regarding recognition given by the industry, community, customers, or suppliers
• Upload any supporting documentation

Businesses with more than 200 FTE

The 'Large Business of the Year' award recognises the exceptional achievements and influential role of a significant enterprise within its industry landscape. This award highlights the company's substantial impact, outstanding leadership, and commitment to excellence. Emphasising industry impact, corporate leadership, community engagement, and sustainable practices, the recipient demonstrates remarkable performance, strategic vision, and a dedication to responsible business practices.

Criteria

• Information that demonstrates excellence in the category
• Examples of the benefit the business brings to the community sector in which they operate
• Information that demonstrates innovation and creativity
• Information that demonstrates strong financial performance (including grants and other funding)
• Information that demonstrates growth (i.e personal development, professional achievement, organisational expansion and societal impact)
• Details regarding recognition given by the industry, community, customers or suppliers
• Upload any supporting documentation

This award is proudly sponsored by John Holland

For businesses located outside of the greater Adelaide Metropolitan Area

The "Regional Business of the Year" award celebrates the ingenuity and resilience of businesses thriving outside Metropolitan Adelaide, showcasing their pivotal role in regional growth and development. Recognising the unique challenges and opportunities faced by regional businesses, this award honours those demonstrating exceptional innovation, community engagement and sustainable practices.

Criteria

• Information that demonstrates excellence in the category
• Examples of the benefit the business brings to the community sector in which they operate
• Information that demonstrates innovation and creativity
• Information that demonstrates strong financial performance (including grants and other funding)
• Information that demonstrates growth (i.e personal development, professional achievement, organisational expansion and societal impact)
• Details regarding recognition given by the industry, community, customers or suppliers
• Upload any supporting documentation

The "Innovative Business of the Year" award celebrates Australian enterprises at the forefront of innovation, distinguished for their pioneering ideas, cutting-edge technologies, and visionary strategies that redefine industry benchmarks. This accolade honours companies demonstrating remarkable impact, sustainability, and a commitment to a culture of innovation within their organisation.

Criteria

• Information that demonstrates excellence in the category
• Examples of the benefit the business brings to the community, sector in which they operate
• Information that demonstrates innovation and creativity
• Information that demonstrates strong financial performance (including grants and other funding)
• Information that demonstrates growth (i.e personal development, professional achievement, organisational expansion and societal impact)
• Details regarding recognition given by the industry, community, customers or suppliers
• Upload any supporting documentation

The “Beyond Border Business of the Year” Award celebrates the remarkable achievements of businesses that trade across Australia, demonstrating exceptional innovation, resilience, and success in navigating the complexities of marketing across the country.

Criteria

• Information that demonstrates excellence in the category
• Examples of the benefit the business brings to the community sector in which they operate
• Information that demonstrates innovation and creativity
• Information that demonstrates strong financial performance (including grants and other funding)
• Information that demonstrates growth (i.e personal development, professional achievement, organisational expansion and societal impact)
• Details regarding recognition given by the industry, community, customers or suppliers
• Upload any supporting documentation

Award for Environmental/Social Outcomes

The "ESG Business of the Year" award celebrates businesses demonstrating outstanding commitment to Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles, making significant strides in creating positive environmental and social impacts. Recognising businesses pioneering sustainability practices, fostering eco-friendly innovation, and driving meaningful societal change, this award honours their exemplary efforts in achieving measurable outcomes that benefit both the planet and communities.

Criteria

• Information that demonstrates excellence in the category
• Examples of the benefit the business brings to the community sector in which they operate
• Information that demonstrates innovation and creativity
• Information that demonstrates strong financial performance (including grants and other funding)
• Information that demonstrates growth (i.e personal development, professional achievement, organisational expansion and societal impact)
• Details regarding recognition given by the industry, community, customers or suppliers
• Upload any supporting documentation

This award is proudly sponsored by William Buck

The “Emerging Business of the Year” Award honours the outstanding accomplishments of an ‘up and coming’ business that has demonstrated exceptional growth, innovation, and potential in its early stages of development. This Award celebrates the entrepreneurial spirit and visionary leadership of startups and young companies that are making significant strides in their respective industries, driving positive change, and inspiring future generations of entrepreneurs.

Criteria

• Information that demonstrates excellence in the category.
• Examples of the benefit the business brings to the community, sector in which they operate
• Information that demonstrates innovation and creativity
• Information that demonstrates strong financial performance (including grants and other funding)
• Information that demonstrates growth (i.e personal development, professional achievement, organisational expansion and societal impact)
• Details regarding recognition given by the industry, community, customers or suppliers
• Upload any supporting documentation

For charities, community organisations and other NFPs (Small, Medium and Large)

The "Not-for-Profit Business of the Year" award acknowledges the invaluable contributions of an organisation driven by a mission to create positive social impact and effect change. Celebrating the dedication, compassion, and unwavering commitment of not-for-profit entities, this award recognises their exceptional efforts in serving communities, advocating for causes, and making a tangible difference.

Criteria

• Information that demonstrates excellence in the category
• Examples of the benefit the business brings to the community sector in which they operate
• Information that demonstrates innovation and creativity
• Information that demonstrates strong financial performance (including grants and other funding)
• Information that demonstrates growth (i.e personal development, professional achievement, organisational expansion and societal impact)
• Details regarding recognition given by the industry, community, customers or suppliers
• Upload any supporting documentation

This award is proudly sponsored by Coopers

The "Family Business of the Year" award honours the enduring legacy, resilience, and commitment of multi-generational family-run enterprises. Recognising their strong values, innovation, and continuity across generations, this award celebrates the unique strengths and contributions of family businesses to the economy and their communities.

Criteria

• Information that demonstrates excellence in the category
• Examples of the benefit the business brings to the community sector in which they operate.
• Information that demonstrates innovation and creativity
• Information that demonstrates strong financial performance (including grants and other funding)
• Information that demonstrates growth (i.e personal development, professional achievement, organisational expansion and societal impact)
• Details regarding recognition given by the industry, community, customers or suppliers
• Upload any supporting documentation

The Governor’s Award for Business Achievement in Gender Equity celebrates businesses demonstrating excellence in promoting gender equity within their workplace.

This award recognises companies that show exceptional dedication to implementing inclusive policies, advancing gender equity, supporting professional development for all staff, and making tangible progress in closing gender gaps in representation and pay equity.

It highlights innovative strategies and/or community engagement initiatives that contribute to fostering a more equitable and inclusive business culture.

Criteria:

• Information that demonstrates excellence in the category
• Examples of policies and practices to promote gender equity in the workplace.
• Demonstration of strong leadership commitment to gender equity, with executives actively advocating for gender inclusivity
• Information providing evidence of the measurable impact of their gender equity initiatives, such as improved gender representation in leadership positions, reduced gender pay gaps, increased employee satisfaction and retention rates, and enhanced diversity and inclusion within the organisation.
• Details regarding recognition given by the industry, community, customers or suppliers
• Upload any supporting documentation.

This award is proudly sponsored by the Department for Trade and Investment - South Australian Government

For outstanding international success in the field of information technology, digital technologies, software, hardware or digital services.

This includes solutions utilising cloud-based platforms, artificial intelligence, machine learning, Internet of Things, augmented reality, autonomous systems, robotics, quantum, virtual reality, data collaboration and management tools, fintech, cyber security and/or blockchain with civilian, defence, space and/or other industry applications.

Areas of focus include:

• clear demonstration of sustainable competitive advantage
• export success and growth potential
• leadership and innovation in international business and marketing strategies
• commitment to diversity, inclusion, sustainability or positive social impact
• value and contribution of exports to business expansion
• overall commitment to growth in international business.

This award is proudly sponsored by Flinders Ports

For outstanding international success in the field of manufactured foods, beverages or agricultural products.

This includes primary production, forestry and fisheries and related services or technology.

Areas of focus include:

• clear demonstration of sustainable competitive advantage
• export success and growth potential
• leadership and innovation in international business and marketing strategies
• commitment to diversity, inclusion, sustainability or positive social impact
• value and contribution of exports to business expansion
• overall commitment to growth in international business.

For outstanding international success in any creative industry.

This includes music, visual and performing arts, fashion, design, film and television, digital media and content, animation, software and games, festival and event production, writing and publishing and creative services.

Areas of focus include:

• clear demonstration of sustainable competitive advantage
• export success and growth potential
• leadership and innovation in international business and marketing strategies
• commitment to diversity, inclusion, sustainability or positive social impact
• value and contribution of exports to business expansion
• overall commitment to growth in international business.

For outstanding international success selling goods or services to customers overseas via e-Commerce, including cross-border e-Commerce and online sales. 

This includes sales to business (B2B), consumer (B2C) or government (B2G) via own website, online marketplaces and other e-Commerce channels.

Areas of focus include:

• clear demonstration of sustainable competitive advantage
• export success and growth potential
• leadership and innovation in international business and marketing strategies
• commitment to diversity, inclusion, sustainability or positive social impact
• value and contribution of exports to business expansion
• overall commitment to growth in international business.

For businesses that have been exporting for 3 years or less.

For outstanding export achievement by a business which has been exporting for three years or less.

This includes established and new businesses in any industry.

Areas of focus include:

• clear demonstration of sustainable competitive advantage
• export success and growth potential
• leadership and innovation in international business and marketing strategies
• commitment to diversity, inclusion, sustainability or positive social impact
• value and contribution of exports to business expansion
• overall commitment to growth in international business.

For outstanding international success in the field of education and training.

This includes higher education, vocational education and training, transnational education, online learning, curriculum development and EdTech.

Areas of focus include:

• clear demonstration of sustainable competitive advantage
• export success and growth potential
• leadership and innovation in international business and marketing strategies
• commitment to diversity, inclusion, sustainability or positive social impact
• value and contribution of exports to business expansion
• overall commitment to growth in international business.

This award is proudly sponsored by CMAX

For outstanding international success in the fields of health, medical or wellbeing.

This includes biotechnology, biosecurity, medical technology, digital health, e-health, aged care, disability, complementary health, pharmaceuticals and related services.

Areas of focus include:

• clear demonstration of sustainable competitive advantage
• export success and growth potential
• leadership and innovation in international business and marketing strategies
• commitment to diversity, inclusion, sustainability or positive social impact
• value and contribution of exports to business expansion
• overall commitment to growth in international business.

This award is proudly sponsored by Export Finance Australia

For outstanding international success in manufacturing, engineering or advanced materials development.  

This includes advanced manufacturing and materials technologies, engineering, design and production.

Areas of focus include:

• clear demonstration of sustainable competitive advantage
• export success and growth potential
• leadership and innovation in international business and marketing strategies
• commitment to diversity, inclusion, sustainability or positive social impact
• value and contribution of exports to business expansion
• overall commitment to growth in international business.

For outstanding international success in the field of professional services. 

This includes legal, accounting, administration and support services, business management and consultancy, marketing services, franchising and licensing, engineering, financial and insurance, market research, translation services and tourism and business events.

Areas of focus include:

• clear demonstration of sustainable competitive advantage
• export success and growth potential
• leadership and innovation in international business and marketing strategies
• commitment to diversity, inclusion, sustainability or positive social impact
• value and contribution of exports to business expansion
• overall commitment to growth in international business.

This award is proudly sponsored by Wiltya Vari

For businesses located outside of the greater Adelaide metropolitan area.

For outstanding international success by a regional business.

This includes businesses whose head office or majority of operations are based in a non-metropolitan location.

Areas of focus include:

• clear demonstration of sustainable competitive advantage
• export success and growth potential
• leadership and innovation in international business and marketing strategies
• commitment to diversity, inclusion, sustainability or positive social impact
• value and contribution of exports to business expansion
• overall commitment to growth in international business.

For outstanding international success in the resources and energy sectors.

This includes businesses involved in the production, processing or value adding of extractive resources or the provision of energy or resources related equipment, services or technology.

Areas of focus include:

• clear demonstration of sustainable competitive advantage
• export success and growth potential
• leadership and innovation in international business and marketing strategies
• commitment to diversity, inclusion, sustainability or positive social impact
• value and contribution of exports to business expansion
• overall commitment to growth in international business.

For outstanding international success by a small business.

This includes businesses with total annual turnover not exceeding A$10 million.

Areas of focus include:

• clear demonstration of sustainable competitive advantage
• export success and growth potential
• leadership and innovation in international business and marketing strategies
• commitment to diversity, inclusion, sustainability or positive social impact
• value and contribution of exports to business expansion
• overall commitment to growth in international business.

This award is proudly sponsored by Adelaide Airport

For outstanding international success in the Green Economy.

This includes the provision of green economy technology or capabilities such as environmental solutions, clean energy, sustainable materials, renewables, waste and water management, green building, smart cities or businesses committed to sustainable business practices.

Areas of focus include:

• clear demonstration of sustainable competitive advantage
• export success and growth potential
• leadership and innovation in international business and marketing strategies
• commitment to diversity, inclusion, sustainability or positive social impact
• value and contribution of exports to business expansion
• overall commitment to growth in international business.

This award is proudly sponsored by the Department for Trade and Investment - South Australian Government

More information to come.