The South Wales Business Awards are thrilled to announce that applications for the highly anticipated 2025 awards are now officially open! Celebrating its seventeenth year, this prestigious event continues to shine a spotlight on the incredible success stories and entrepreneurial spirit driving South Wales’s economy.
The 2025 awards ceremony will be held on Friday, 26th September, at the iconic Hilton Hotel in Cardiff, bringing together hundreds of business leaders, entrepreneurs, innovators, and dignitaries for an unforgettable evening. Returning as host is the much-loved Welsh television and radio presenter Sara Edwards, whose passion for supporting local talent and enterprise brings warmth and energy to the event.
Over the years, the South Wales Business Awards have become a key fixture in the Welsh business calendar. The awards are not just about financial success—they champion innovation, community contribution, sustainability, and leadership. Whether you’re an ambitious start-up founder, a pioneering tech innovator, or a business that has withstood the test of time, these awards provide a platform to be recognised for your achievements.
Reflecting the dynamic and evolving economic landscape, two new categories have been introduced for 2025. This year’s categories include:
- Young Entrepreneur of the Year
- Start-up of the Year
- Retail & Tourism Business of the Year
- Female Entrepreneur of the Year
- Business Services Business of the Year
- Technological & Innovative Business of the Year
- Employer of the Year
- Green Business of the Year
- Family Business of the Year
- Financial Services Business of the Year
- South Wales Business of the Year 2025 (Drawn from winners of each category)
The 2024 awards saw a record number of nominations and an incredibly strong line-up of finalists. From tech disruptors to heritage retailers and sustainable innovators, the quality of entrants underscored the breadth of talent across the region. Last year’s winners serve as a powerful reminder of just how diverse and resilient Welsh businesses truly are. To see the full list of 2024 winners and their remarkable achievements, click here.
Wesley Skene, Founder of the South Wales Business Awards, remarked, “Since 2008, it’s been clear that Wales is a truly special country. Year after year, we witness phenomenal Welsh businesses succeed and evolve. It’s a testament to the unique and resilient spirit of Welsh entrepreneurs, who consistently overcome global economic challenges.”
The South Wales Business Awards are immensely grateful for the invaluable support of their sponsors: The University of Wales Trinity Saint David (Feature Sponsor) and Swansea Building Society (Event Sponsor).
The deadline for applications is Friday, August 29th, 2025, with nominations announced shortly after on Monday, September 1st, 2025. Full details and a downloadable application pack are available at www.southwalesbusinessawards.co.uk.
