FAQs - Your questions answered
1. Who is eligible to apply?
Any 'business unit' in the UK, the Channel Islands or the Isle of Man, operating regularly as an identifiable and cohesive organisation in the UK, and having the equivalent of at least two full-time employees (or part-time equivalent), is eligible to apply provided that it meets the criteria for one or more of the three Award categories.
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2. How do I apply?
Simply complete an electronic version of the appropriate application form from the website and submit it online or telephone the application hotline on 08705 13 44 86.
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3. Can I apply in more than one category?
Yes. Provided you meet the criteria, you can apply in one, two, or all three business Award categories.
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4. What is the deadline for the return of completed application forms?
Midnight 31 October. Applicants are able to submit their form online right up to the deadline. Alternatively for those that would prefer to deliver their application by hand or by courier, staff will be on hand to receive applications until midnight. All applications that are delivered to the office will be stamped with the date and time of their receipt.
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5. Can I use continuation sheets to expand my reply in answer to the questions in the application form(s)?
Applicants can use a maximum of six single sided numbered sheets of A4 company headed paper to answer questions but should indicate clearly which question the answer relates to.
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6. Will I need to submit audited accounts in support of my application?
Your company may be asked by The Queen's Awards Office to provide an auditor's certificate confirming the performance figures or estimated figures quoted in the application form. You may also be required to provide assurances of responsible conduct in the selection and control of suppliers, management of the production process and of human resources, and customer service (Declaration of Corporate Responsibility). Please note, however, that a request for this information does not mean that a candidate will necessarily be granted an Award.
The Queen's Awards Office is charged with ensuring that Queen's Awards are only granted to business units that maintain the highest standards of propriety. Applicants will therefore be required to give their consent to a series of 'health checks' by The Queen's Awards Office, as set out in Part 4 of the application form.
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7. Is it possible to submit a joint application?
Yes. It may be possible in the Innovation category, if a significant quality of the work has been carried out in collaboration with others in the UK. However, it is not possible to submit a joint application in the International Trade or Sustainable Development categories. You should consult The Queen's Awards Office helpline (020 7222 2277) for advice.
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8. How will I know if my application form has been safely received?
If you submit online you will receive an acknowledgement straight-away. If you submit a hard-copy application we will send an acknowledgement of safe receipt within 14 days of receiving it.
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9. When will I be notified about whether or not my application has been successful?
The Queen's Awards Office will notify both successful and unsuccessful applicants about the outcome of their application(s) shortly before the annual announcement on 21 April, the Queen's birthday.
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10. Is the information kept confidential if we are unsuccessful?
Yes. Details of the applicants who do not receive an Award are not disclosed.
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11. What is the currency of the Business Award?
The Business Award lasts for five years.
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12. Can we use the Award for our own marketing purposes?
Yes. Successful organisations may fly the Award flag at their principal premises and are entitled to use The Queen's Award Emblem on their stationery, advertising and goods, or in any other promotional activity. Companies may find this a useful resource when competing for business overseas.
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13. Is it true that a Reception is given by The Queen for the winning organisations?
Yes. An evening Reception is usually given by The Queen and The Duke of Edinburgh at Buckingham Palace. Representatives from each winning business unit are usually invited to attend. They should be drawn from senior or middle management and from junior ranks of the business to recognise the contribution made by the whole workforce.
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14. Where can I get further advice?
The Queen's Awards Office Helpline: 020 7222 2277
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15. Who do I contact about publicity enquiries?
Regional and National Press enquiries: COI News & PR - 0121 352 5512
Trade and Specialist Press: Highlight PR - 01249 462 792
General Publicity enquiries: BERR - 020 7215 5240
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