Why this prestigious recognition can transform your business growth, credibility, and future.
Why Do the King’s Awards Matter So Much?
It’s not just another business award.
It’s a mark of excellence from the King, and a seal of approval reserved only for the most outstanding UK organisations.
The King’s Awards for Enterprise are among the most prestigious business accolades in the world. Each year, they recognise companies that lead the way in innovation, international trade, sustainable development, or social mobility.
So what sets them apart?
- They’re free to enter. You can’t buy your way in.
- The judging process is rigorous, evidence-led, and government-backed.
- Winners are chosen for real-world commercial impact and positive contribution to society.
But here’s the real question…
What actually happens after you win?
What doors open? What changes? What’s the true value behind that coveted royal emblem?
7 Powerful Benefits of Winning a King’s Award for Enterprise
Winning a King’s Award for Enterprise is a huge milestone achievement, but it isn’t the end goal, it’s often the beginning of a new chapter.
Here’s how successful applicants use their win to drive real results.
1. Unrivalled Trust and Credibility
In a crowded market, trust is everything.
The moment you’re announced as a King’s Award winner, your reputation is elevated overnight.
You’re no longer just a great business; you’re one that’s been recognised by His Majesty the King.
That kind of credibility:
- Instantly reassures new customers
- Builds confidence with investors and stakeholders
- Strengthens loyalty from existing clients
Think of it as a royal seal of approval for how you do business.
2. Marketing Power: Exclusive Emblem Use Across All Channels
Only winners can use the official King’s Awards emblem, and you can use it for up to five years after you win.
That means adding it to:
- Your website, email signature, and brochures
- Product packaging and advertising
- Office signage, uniforms, vans
You can even fly a King’s Awards flag at your HQ.
It’s a trust signal with built-in prestige, and it adds authority wherever your brand appears. (And for any visitors to your HQ!)
3. Prestigious PR Opportunities and Media Coverage
The media loves a success story. Especially one with royal recognition.
As a winner, you’ll:
- Gain national, regional, and trade press coverage
- Open doors to new speaking and partnership opportunities
- Attract inbound media interest, not just at the time of winning, but for months and years after
In fact, 73% of winners report increased press coverage following their award win.
4. Enhanced Staff Engagement and Retention
Winning a King’s Award isn’t just good for external reputation, it’s a huge internal win, too.
Your team gets to be part of something extraordinary. A moment of national recognition for the work they’ve contributed to.
That boosts:
- Pride and morale
- Employee engagement
- And often, retention
A survey of winners found that 73% saw an increase in staff engagement after receiving the award.
5. Improved Business Development and Sales
Regular business awards open doors. Royal awards make people really sit up and take note.
Clients and procurement teams see winners as less risky and more reputable, especially in B2B or regulated industries.
Many businesses report:
- Stronger conversion rates
- More inbound enquiries
- And easier access to new contracts or funding
A King’s Award for Enterprise win backs up everything you say and do – especially when your emblem is proudly displayed in your pitch decks, bids and proposals.
6. Global Recognition and Export Opportunities
57% of International Trade winners say they gained more overseas recognition after winning. In new markets, where your business may not be known, a UK royal award sends a powerful message:
This is a brand you can trust.
It’s a real differentiator on the global stage, especially when working with government agencies, overseas partners, or new distributors.
7. Access to Celebratory Moments & Networking
Beyond the business case, there’s the unforgettable experience:
- A formal presentation of your crystal trophy from your County’s Lord Lieutenant
- The right to fly the King’s Awards flag at your premises, as well as the highly recognisable emblem across all marketing materials
- And the highlight for many; a reception at Buckingham Palace
Not just memorable, but also photogenic, these moments give you content and PR opportunities to last the year (and more).
SwimTrek, for example, celebrated their win right on Brighton seafront, creating lasting memories for their team and local coverage to match.
What Winners Say: Real Business Impact
Don’t just take our word for it. Here’s what real businesses have to say.
- 77% of winners said the award brought increased commercial value
- 73% reported a rise in staff engagement
- 73% gained more press coverage than usual
- 57% of International Trade winners experienced more global recognition
Most importantly, 85% of all winners said the impact of winning either met or exceeded their expectations
These aren’t just feel-good stats. They’re tangible business outcomes.
And the benefits span all sectors, from manufacturing and tech to social enterprises and sustainable brands.
For iconic folding-bike maker, Brompton, winning in the Sustainable Development category, at a time when the cycling industry is struggling, CEO Will Butler-Adams said, “This award couldn’t have come at a better time. Things like the King’s Award just make everyone feel good – you need to find things to celebrate when times are tough.”
When Norfolk-based business Delta Fire won not just one, but two King’s Awards in one year, Ian Gardner, Managing Director and Founder of Delta Fire, said:
“These two highly prestigious awards are a fantastic recognition of the great team work in Delta Fire over the last 35 years from a small workshop unit to a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility using net zero energy.”
These stories prove that when used well, the award becomes a platform for storytelling, celebration, and sustained business development.
Is your Business Eligible to Win?
Many businesses assume the King’s Awards are out of reach… but you might be more eligible than you think.
To apply, you must:
- Be based in the UK
- Have a minimum of two full-time employees
- Be able to show strong corporate social responsibility
- And meet category-specific criteria linked to your commercial performance
There are four categories, and you can apply to more than one:
- Innovation
For businesses delivering truly original solutions, products, or services - International Trade
For businesses with strong and growing overseas commercial success - Sustainable Development
For those committed to sustainable practices and impact - Promoting Opportunity (through social mobility)
For organisations increasing access and opportunity in disadvantaged communities
Each category has clear, published criteria, for example you’ll need to show a minimum of two to three years of strong financial performance.
From SMEs to national brands, the judging focuses on impact, not size. In 2025, 88% of winners were SMEs, and 27 of those were micro-businesses, with 10 employees or less.
Proving no matter your size, if you fit the criteria you have every chance of winning.
How to Maximise the Award After You Win
Winning a King’s Award is just the beginning. What you do next determines how far the benefits go.
Here’s how to make the most of it:
Announce Boldly, Then Keep the Story Going
Don’t just issue one press release. Share your story in multiple formats: blog, email, video, podcast.
Highlight why you won and what it means for your customers, partners, and team.
Pitch your win to industry press and local media. Most outlets are keen to profile award-winning businesses.
Build the Emblem Into Your Brand Everywhere
Winners have official use of the emblem for up to five years after you win, so make sure you use it on:
- Your website and social media banners
- Tenders and proposals
- Product packaging and customer materials
- Vehicles, uniforms, office signage
- Recruitment campaigns
It’s a universal trust badge,and you worked hard to get it- don’t be shy with it!
Leverage the Win in Recruitment and Team Culture
Create internal comms and content to:
- Thank your team and showcase their contribution
- Use the award in your onboarding materials
- Support employer branding campaigns
Pride is a powerful motivator, and award recognition is great proof of a positive culture.
Use It to Open Doors and Start Conversations
Now could be the perfect time to:
- Reconnect with old contacts and leads
- Highlight the win in new business pitches
- Position yourself as a speaker or contributor in your industry
Your credibility has never been higher, leverage your win while it’s fresh.
Take the First Step Towards Winning
You’ve seen the benefits. You’ve read the stats.
Now ask yourself: what would winning a King’s Award mean for your business?
For most winners, it’s not just about the recognition. It’s about the unique opportunities the award opens up.
So if you’re:
- Delivering meaningful results
- Making a positive impact
- And ready to be seen as a leader in your space…
…then it’s time to go for it.
We help ambitious UK businesses navigate the application process, tell their story, and stand out to the judges.
Ready to win?
Here’s how we can help;
- Check your eligibility.
Complete the eligibility form here, our team will review your answers and advise on the best category and if you’re ready to win. - Join our King’s Awards Workshop
Book your place to get more insights to the awards and how to enter and win - Speak to our expert team
Book your free discovery call about how we can support you with your nomination
