In a decade-long tradition of honouring outstanding businesses, the Milton Keynes Business Achievement Awards (MKBAA) is back for its tenth anniversary edition with the ceremony taking place on March 21 at Stadium MK.
This milestone not only reflects a decade of acknowledging business accomplishments but also mirrors the parallel journey of growth and prosperity within the city of Milton Keynes.
Established as the most prestigious business awards ceremony in Milton Keynes, MKBAA has evolved over the past 10 years to recognise the achievements of businesses spanning a number of sectors, from innovative start-ups to established corporations and impactful charities.
This annual event has played a pivotal role in tracking the city’s impressive progression, aligning its themes with the heartbeat of Milton Keynes each year. Themes such as 50 Years of Growth, International Trade, Education, Training and Skills Development and Celebrating Diversity have encapsulated the essence of the city’s evolution.
This year, MKBAA sets the stage with the theme: ‘Forever Innovative: Milton Keynes Leading the UK’s high-tech future’, acknowledging the city’s status as a powerhouse for technology and innovation.
At the Finalists’ Party, held at Holiday Inn Central Milton Keynes in February, Nicholas Mann, Chair of MKBAA organisers, Milton Keynes Business Leaders Partnership, welcomed a plethora of guests to celebrate the finalists’ achievements, and to thank the many sponsors who enable the awards to take place every year. He said afterwards:
“I am delighted with the continued success of the awards, and to be at the helm as we reach this significant tenth anniversary milestone. MKBAA 2024 will not only symbolise a decade of recognition but also serve as a testament to the dynamic and thriving business environment within Milton Keynes.
“With categories that have diversified to adapt to the changing business landscape, MKBAA is set to continue its legacy of acknowledging excellence and fostering a spirit of innovation in the city for years to come. Good luck to all our finalists.”
What it means to win an award
Over the years hundreds of businesses have been recognised, and past winners have been sharing their recollections on what winning an MKBAA award has meant for them and their organisations.
Shalom Lloyd MBE, Founder and Managing Director of Naturally Tiwa Skincare and eMQT, won Best New Business in 2019, before going on to achieve double success in 2022 by scooping the Entrepreneur of the Year and Business of the Year awards. Shalom said:
“Entering, and subsequently winning an MKBAA award in one of the most diverse, innovative and energetic business environments in the country has not only raised the profile of our businesses but has recognised our organisations as key contributors to this dynamic city and environment.
“Winning has meant that our community sees and respects us as credible and trustworthy businesses. It has also helped position our businesses positively in the eyes of our customers, our suppliers and our peers in our industry.”
Vanessa Holmes, Associate Director of Milton Keynes Hospital Charity, said:
“We were Charity of the Year award winners in 2019 and it was incredible. Not just because of how winning an MKBAA raised the profile of the charity; it also increased our credibility and opened up a brand-new network through the Milton Keynes Business Leaders Partnership. The win was also great for the team. We all worked so hard, and to get that recognition was a huge morale booster – it made us feel valued.”
Some businesses, following a successful win, have subsequently gone on to show their support for the awards and become sponsors, as Nick Lanigan, Managing Director of Clearview Intelligence, pointed out:
“Having been lucky enough to be the recipient of a Milton Keynes Business Achievement Award we recognise the importance of supporting other local businesses at this highly respected event, and we are delighted to be sponsoring the Professional Services category of MKBAA 2024.
“We chose this category as it respects one of our core values as the Clearview Intelligence culture is one of collaboration with clients, partners and our wider supply chain.
“The Milton Keynes Business Achievement Awards have not only provided Clearview Intelligence with an opportunity to enhance its reputation and presence in the local community and Milton Keynes area, but it has also facilitated valuable networking with local customers, clients and suppliers. The award ceremony itself is just one aspect of this significant event.”
For full details of the event visit mkbaa.co.uk
The headline sponsors for MKBAA 2024 are Milton Keynes Council, The Open University, Brioche Pasquier and Aiimi Ltd. There are a small number of other sponsorship opportunities still available and those interested should email sponsorship@mkbaa.co.uk
