Online entry

When do entries open and close?

Entries for 2025/2026 are now open and close on Tuesday 30th September at 11:59pm.Go here to start your entry.

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How do I enter online?

It's really simple. All you need to do is create an account in our online platform Award Force, choose which category you wish to enter (you can enter multiple), start and save your entry. You can start, save, edit and submit your entry online anytime between when the awards open and when they close. You can even make edits to a submitted entry until the deadline.

There are a few things you will need to upload at the same time (e.g logo, staff photo), but all the requirements are listed as part of the online application process. If you have any problems with the process, don't stress. Just get in touch. We're not trying to make things difficult for people and if you have problems submitting your entry or content, we'll work with you to make sure it all comes together. Having said that, we need you to make deadline so don't leave it to the last minute to submit or ask questions!  

Who gets to see my entry? Is it confidential?

Yes, it is confidential. Only our Judges see the details of your entry, and the individually sign a confidentiality agreement. Marketing materials, i.e. your logo, team photo(s) and media statement will be used to publicly promote you/your business as an entrant.

Can I enter myself for the Young Business Leader Award?

Yes! We except self-nominations for the Young Business Leader Award (nobody knows how much you have achieved as you do!). You will need to create an Awards Force account, start an entry and choose the "Young Business Leader Award - Application" category. 

Entrants in this category must be 35 years of age or younger, as of the application closing date (30 September 2025).

Do I have to submit detailed financial information as part of my entry?

Yes, this is an essential component of the awards. Financials are always destroyed at the end of judging.

This was my first year in business and I made a small loss – will this count against me in my entry?

No, it won’t. As an emerging business the judges will take into account the fact that your first year in business will have additional expenses, less turnover etc.

Is there help available to enter?

Yes, the Chamber runs seminars to provide advice and help to entrants. To see the next session(s), go here. If no session is currently scheduled, or you would like help or advice with entering, please don’t hesitate to contact the Chamber. 

How much time will it take to put my entry together?

If you already have business and marketing plans, you’ll be able to use a lot of the information in those documents. If you do not have these documents, this is a great opportunity to get all the information in your head on to paper. We advise you do allow plenty of time to get your entry together. You are welcome to get in touch with us if you would like contact details for people who could assist you with your entries.

Can a not-for-profit business enter?

Yes. Explain how your funding is obtained, the criteria to which your charter or constitution requires you to operate, challenges you face in meeting your goals and objectives while retaining your special not-for-profit status. In 2018 we introduced a category specifically for programmes, projects, campaigns or an overall business that has had, or continues to have a positive impact on the Nelson Tasman community in a way that inspires others and makes a difference.

Do I need to get a professional to put my entry form together?

Definitely not. Some entrants do use professionals to assist them with telling their story, but you can put it together yourself. In fact, we encourage entrants to do that, as it helps to give the judges a feel for you and your business. All entries must now be submitted online. You can upload videos and documents as part of your online entry, and we encourage you to put forward as much information about yourself as possible to showcase your business personality.