If you’re a tradesperson, small business owner, or part of a small tight-knit team, you might look at awards like this and think… “That’s probably not for me.”
“It’s more for the big companies.” But the truth is the Trades Awards were created for you. Fourteen years ago, this event was launched with a very clear purpose: to recognise and celebrate smaller businesses, tradespeople, and individuals who don’t always get the spotlight, but are the backbone of our industry. And while the awards have grown and developed over the years, that hasn’t changed. Smaller businesses and tradespeople are still at the heart of everything we do.

You Don’t Need to Be a Big Company to Enter

You don’t need a huge team, a major project, or a big marketing department

What really matters is:

• The quality of your work
• The pride you take in what you do
• The way you treat your customers
• The effort you put in, day in, day out

There are several categories designed specifically with tradespeople and smaller businesses in mind, and these are often some of the most competitive and inspiring on the night.

Categories You Could Consider Entering

Tradesperson of the Year

This award is all about individual skill, dedication and professionalism. If you take pride in your work, consistently deliver high standards, and go the extra mile for your customers, this category is for you. It doesn’t matter if you work on large sites or smaller domestic jobs. What matters is the quality and consistency of your work.

Apprentice of the Year

For those at the start of their career, this award recognises apprentices who are showing real promise. If you, or someone in your team, is learning quickly, working hard, and making a positive impact, this is a fantastic opportunity to be recognised early in your journey.

Home or Building Improvement

This is one of the most accessible categories for smaller businesses. Whether it’s a renovation, extension, or improvement project, this award celebrates craftsmanship, attention to detail, and creative problem solving. You don’t need a large-scale development. Some of the strongest entries come from smaller, high-quality projects that transform a space for a client.

Outstanding Customer Service

This category is perfect for businesses that pride themselves on how they work with clients. If your customers trust you, recommend you, and come back to you, that says everything. Judges are looking for strong communication, reliability, and a willingness to go above and beyond. This is where smaller businesses often stand out the most.

Rising Star

If you or someone in your team is making a big impact early in their career, this category recognises emerging talent. It’s not about years of experience. It’s about potential, attitude, and impact.

Why Smaller Businesses Do So Well

Every year, we see tradespeople and smaller businesses:

• Make the finalist list
• Win awards
• Gain recognition they never expected

And often, they are the stories people remember most. Because they are real, and relatable, and they represent what this industry is built on.

We Promise, it’s Not as Daunting as You Think

We know entering can feel like a big step. But the process is designed to be straightforward, supportive, and fair. You don’t need to sell yourself. Just tell your story, share your work, and let the judges see what you do best.

Ready to Enter?

If you’re proud of what you do, this is your chance to be recognised.