Embark on your Journey with the 2024 Geelong Business Excellence Awards

The Geelong Business Excellence Awards, managed by the Geelong Chamber of Commerce and supported by major sponsors, extend an opportunity that reaches far beyond the fleeting moment of victory.

These awards provide a unique chance to be part of Geelong’s most prestigious business gathering, engaging with more than 600 business owners.

Participation not only allows you to benchmark your business against others but also helps reinforce existing relationships and attracts the attention of potential clients, marking your business as one of Geelong’s finest.

The awards are open to a diverse range of businesses within Geelong and surrounding areas, including Bellarine, Surf Coast, Queenscliff, and Golden Plains, and up to 40km from the Geelong city centre.

The best way to commence your journey in this year’s awards is by attending a free information session.

These sessions, hosted by the Geelong Chamber of Commerce, equip you with essential knowledge to craft a winning entry.

During these sessions, you will meet the judges, learn about the various award categories, and have the chance to interact with and pose questions to previous award winners.

You’ll gain a thorough understanding of the process required to write a winning entry, feel confident in submitting your own, and have all your questions addressed.

There are two in-person sessions on Tuesday May 7 at The Gordon and Wednesday May 8 at Pivot City.

There are also three upcoming online sessions you can join on Friday May 10, Tuesday May 14 and Thursday May 16. Attending any one of these sessions will cover all the necessary material. Winning an award elevates your brand and establishes a reputation of excellence both within and outside of your industry.

It also opens doors to exclusive networking events with other exceptional businesses, aiding in the growth and success of your own.

Geelong Chamber of Commerce CEO Jeremy Crawford describes the awards as the embodiment of excellence.

“The Geelong Business Excellence Awards are a shining landmark in the business community, celebrating those who constantly push the envelope towards true excellence,” Mr Crawford said.

“Participating in the GBEA is more than an entry; it’s a journey that offers invaluable insights, professional feedback, and well-deserved recognition for your dedication and achievements. It’s about celebrating the best.”

“We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our wonderful sponsors and partners, whose unwavering support and generosity bring this spectacular celebration to life, year after year.”

Eligible entities include private, commercial, and fully-funded government organisations, including educational and not-for-profit organisations, though departments cannot enter. Subsidiaries are welcome to participate.

Entrants must possess a registered Australian Business Number (ABN).

New this year is the Employer of Choice category, sponsored by the City of Greater Geelong, highlighting businesses that excel in creating a wonderful workplace environment that maximises the full people of their people by providing opportunities to grow and advance.

Additionally, the age range for the Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award, sponsored by Deakin University, has been lowered to 16-40, encouraging younger innovators to showcase their achievements.

Ready to make your mark? Submissions are now open and will be accepted until 4pm on Friday, July 12. For more details on how to enter, visit www.gbea.com.au