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New awards spotlight region's hidden economic champions

Mid-sized businesses driving East Anglia's economic growth will get their moment in the spotlight as nominations open for a major new national awards programme.

Why it matters: These companies have shown "an impressive track record of growth, particularly against a backdrop of economic uncertainty," according to BDO East Anglia's regional managing partner Peter Harrup.

The big picture: The Private Business Awards 2025, sponsored by BDO, aims to celebrate mid-sized businesses that typically operate away from the public eye despite their significant economic impact.

Peter Harrup, East Anglia's regional managing partner at BDO
Peter Harrup, East Anglia's regional managing partner at BDO(BDO)

By the numbers:

  • Eligible companies must have turnover between £50m-£300m

  • 10 award categories available

  • Businesses must have been trading for at least 3 years

What they're saying: "It is a richly diverse community, hugely entrepreneurial, with some fantastic stories to tell and inspire, particularly in East Anglia," Harrup said. "For private or PE-backed business in the region, the awards provide a great opportunity to be recognised and celebrated."

All categories:

  • Private Business of the Year

  • Tech Business of the Year

  • VC or PE-Backed Business of the Year

  • Social Enterprise of the Year

  • Scale up Business of the Year

  • Future Leader

  • CEO of the Year

  • Family Business of the Year

  • CFO of the Year

  • Transformation of the Year

What's next:

  • Nominations close on 14 March 2025

  • Shortlist announced in June

  • Winners revealed at London gala dinner on 11 September 2025

The bottom line: These awards shine a light on the hidden champions of our region's economy, celebrating their resilience and growth "particularly against a backdrop of economic uncertainty."

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Despite a lack of promotion, the big reveal drew a good crowd of passersby

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