ENTERING the Inspire Business Awards can be a real win-win – just ask Joel Dalton, from Basingstoke-based business SwagPack.

There are less than four weeks to go for businesses to enter the Inspire Business Awards – and one of last year’s winners is urging local businesses to get their skates on.

Joel, co-founder of SwagPack, said: “Entering the Inspire awards is a breeze and I’d encourage all local businesses to get involved. The deadline for entries this year is March 6 so there’s no time to lose.

“We were exceptionally grateful to win the New Business of the Year award in 2021, recognising our amazing team’s work.  It was a fun evening, championing the best of local business talent, with excellent networking and PR opportunities.”

READ MORE: Business trailblazers encouraged to enter Inspire awards

The New Business of the Year Award – which is sponsored by TrustMark – is open to any business in the awards area that commenced trading on or after April 2020. The award will be presented to a dynamic company that can demonstrate excellence in developing their business. ­

John Biffen, chair of the Inspire Business Awards steering group, said: “We have so many great businesses in Basingstoke and Deane, Test Valley, and Rushmoor, and the judges are looking forward to receiving the nominations for the various categories.

“Winning an award can deliver a real boost to staff morale and it also helps to bring in new business so the judges hope that businesses seize the chance to get in the running for an Inspire Business Awards honour.”   

SEE ALSO: Residents encouraged to enter business awards as deadline looms

There are plenty of exciting changes in store for the 2022-23 event as the prestigious awards, which are organised by Destination Basingstoke, move to a new venue and timeslot in the calendar.

Thursday, July 13 is the date for the diary and The Anvil in Basingstoke will be the place to be as people and businesses from Basingstoke and Deane, Rushmoor and Test Valley compete for the winner’s prize in 12 categories.

Entry to the awards is free and easy and can be done online at destinationbasingstoke.co.uk/inspire.

All entries must be submitted by the deadline of March 6.