Business leaders from across the region came together this week to gain insight into what it takes to win one of the UK’s most coveted business accolades
The King’s Award for Enterprise Masterclass, hosted at Sandwell College on Tuesday 10 June, provided expert advice, inspiration and practical tips for businesses interested in applying for the King’s Award for Enterprise.
Celebrating excellence and sharing insight
The event opened with a welcome from Lisa Capper, CEO and Principal of The Sandwell Colleges, who highlighted the colleges’ commitment to supporting skills and enterprise across the region.
Attendees then heard from Derek Anderson CBE, Lord Lieutenant of the West Midlands, who underlined the value and significance of the King’s Awards in recognising business excellence across categories including Innovation, International Trade, Sustainable Development and Promoting Opportunity through Social Mobility.
Tom Westley DL, Chair of the West Midlands Lieutenancy, delivered a presentation explaining the application process, offering insights into what makes a standout submission and encouraging more SMEs to get involved.
This was followed by a presentation from Leanne Jordan, COO of Nourish3d, who shared her business’ award-winning journey and spoke about the tangible benefits of winning, from PR and brand awareness to recruitment and credibility.
Local voices, national success
After a networking break, Sandwell Business Ambassador, Paul Hull, Managing Director of KMB Shipping Group, gave a powerful presentation on how the award helped grow his company’s international trade, driving a 1,000% increase in global enquiries and a 25% uplift in international turnover.
The event concluded with a dynamic Q&A panel featuring Paul Hull, Leanne Jordan, Tom Westley DL, and John Wood DL, where guests had the opportunity to pose questions directly to those with first-hand experience of the awards.
Several Sandwell Business Ambassadors were in attendance, offering guidance to businesses considering applying. Ambassadors Paul Hull and John Wood DL played key roles at the event, with Paul delivering his story and John participating in the Q&A panel. You can read more about their involvement in this news article.
Apply now for the 2026 awards
Applications for the 2026 King’s Award for Enterprise are now open and close on 9 September 2025.
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