Frequently Asked questions
Can I nominate a business to enter?
You do not need to be nominated to enter the Geelong Business Excellence Awards. However, if there is a business that you think should enter the awards, please contact gbea@geelongchamber.com.au
Click Here to nominate an outstanding business leader or young entrepreneur. Please note: You do not need to be nominated to enter the awards.
Can I nominate a business leader or young entrepreneur?
Yes. Click Here to nominate.
Please note: You do not need to be nominated to enter the program.
When are entries open and close?
Entries open on 5 May 2022.
Entries Close Friday 15 July at 4.00pm.
How do I know if I or my business are eligible to enter?
Click Here to understand who is eligible to enter the awards.
Who is eligible to enter the awards?
Click here to understand the reasons why you should enter.
How do I enter the Awards?
Click here to enter
What is the word count?
The word count is strictly 2500 words. If you exceed the word count, your entry will be ineligible.
How big can my attachments be?
The online entry form allows you to upload up to 15MB per attachment.
Can I get assistance in completing the awards criteria?
If you are a first time business entrant or never been a finalist of the Geelong Business Excellence Awards, you have the opportunity to have your submission reviewed by an appointed review judge. This is a complimentary service.
If eligible, please send the answers to the entry criteria (in word format) to gbea@geelongchamber.com.au
Your entry will be reviewed by a judge and you will be given constructive feedback. We will be accepting submissions from the 3rd of June until Friday 8th of July (4pm or earlier).
We also have external award writers on hand if you would like to outsource writing your online entry submission.
If you are interested in this service, please contact gbea@geelongchamber.com.au and we will provide you with recommendations. There is a fee associated with this service.
What is the closing date for entries?
Friday 15 July 2022 at 4.00pm
Can I mail or email my entry?
No. Entries will not be accepted by mail or email.
Are there any fees to enter the Geelong Business Excellence Awards?
No. The awards are free to enter.
How do we enter our business?
Entries for the Geelong Business Excellence Awards are now open. Click here to enter
Do all the questions have to be answered?
Yes please. The Judges score each answer individually and the entries are often referred back to during the awards process. You should therefore consider all questions carefully, and ensure to detail all your business achievements.
What happens after I enter?
For the Business Entrants, judges will review all entries and select the finalists for each category. Each finalist is required to undertake a site tour for further judging. Site tours will commence from the 15 August to 14 September.
For Individual Entrants, judges will review all entries and select the finalists. All finalists will be required to sit an interview on Friday 12 August between 9.00am to 5.00 pm.
All finalists, families and networks are invited to the awards presentation event on Thursday 27 October 2022.
Will all entries become finalists?
No. Judges will eliminate entries based on areas such as an incomplete entry, exceeding word count, inability to meet the awards criteria or unsuitable eligibility requirements.
How do I know if I have been selected as a finalist?
All finalists will be announced on this website and social media platforms on Thursday, 4 August 2022.
You will also be notified by the Awards team if you become a finalist. The awards team will then book in a site visit time or interview.
How do I know if I become a winner?
There will be an Awards Presentation evening on Thursday 27th of October 2022 where all winners will be announced and acknowledged.
Can I enter both Business Leader of the Year and Young Entrepreneur of the Year categories?
Yes, you can.
Do I need to be affiliated with an awards sponsor to enter?
No. This will not affect the judging process.
Can an entrant win more than one award?
Yes. It’s possible that any given business could win multiple awards.
What type of photos do I need to upload?
Business Entrants: It’s important that we have news-ready photos, should we promote your business. You will need to supply us with minimum of 1 High Resolution (minimum 1 MB or larger) JPEG images. We prefer photos of your team.
Individual Entrants: You will need to supply us with 1 High Resolution Colour profile photo (minimum 1 MB or larger, JPEG format).
JUDGING
Who judges the entries?
Representatives from a variety of industries and associations who have experience or an understanding of businesses are involved in the judging of all entries.
The judges will treat all entry information professionally and sign confidentiality agreements before judging commences.
Click here to view the judging panel for 2022.
What do the Judges look for in an entry?
Our judges are looking for concise answers that are relevant, accurate and honest.
They are wanting to get an understanding of the business principles, philosophies and practices.
For example: Describe your plans and visions for the future. How did your business become successful?
A winning entry is often one with well-considered answers accompanied with evidence. Ensure to validate your statements by using stats/graphs, industry benchmarks, testimonials etc.
presentation event
When is the Presentation Event
Thursday 27 October 2022. Details will be advised soon.