1 minute read
Workshop inspires Hertfordshire entrepreneurs to aim for royal awards
A workshop in Welwyn Garden City has equipped Hertfordshire business leaders with valuable insights into a prestigious national initiative.
Announced earlier this year, the King’s Awards for Enterprise 2026 will recognise outstanding achievements in four key areas – innovation, international trade, sustainable development and social mobility.
These honours, previously known as the Queen’s Awards for Enterprise, represent the highest official UK awards for British businesses.
The workshop, hosted at the Sika offices, was organised by the Hertfordshire Chamber in partnership with HM Lord-Lieutenant of Hertfordshire, Robert Voss CBE CStJ to raise awareness of the awards and encourage more Hertfordshire businesses to submit entries.
The event acted as an introduction and a practical guide to the awards. Attendees gained a deeper understanding of the benefits of entering, such as increased credibility, enhanced reputation and opportunities for business growth.
Participants were also given tools to assess their eligibility across various categories. Expert guidance was provided on how to craft a compelling application, including tips on what makes a winning entry stand out.
Each speaker shared valuable insights on their journeys to winning the King’s Awards, the impact the recognition had had on their organisations and practical advice for prospective applicants.
Speakers at the workshop included:
• HM Lord-Lieutenant of Hertfordshire, Robert Voss CBE CStJ
• John Howie DL, Co-Founder of Lintbells (winners in 2016, 2018 and 2023)
• Peter Church, Managing Director of FB Chain (winner in 2025)
• Xander Cadisch, Sustainability Director and Head of Light Tribe at Phos (winner in 2024)
Donna Schultz, CEO of Hertfordshire Chamber, said:
“The workshop was a fantastic opportunity for local businesses to gain first-hand insight into the King’s Awards and the positive impact they can have. Those who attended left feeling informed, inspired and ready to take the next step. We’re excited to see Hertfordshire well represented in the 2026 entries.”
With the support of the Chamber and the Lord-Lieutenant, Hertfordshire businesses are now better equipped and more motivated to apply for the King’s Awards and gain national recognition for their achievements.
For full details on how to enter, please visit: www.gov.uk/kings-awards-for-enterprise or https://kingsawards.blog.gov.uk/about/
