Business owners deserve some recognition

Let’s face it – business ownership is ‘hard yakka’. You invest all that physical and emotional energy to build your little empire, overcoming a whole bunch of hurdles on the way – yet at the end of the day what thanks or recognition do you receive?

Now you can put yourself up for some much deserved recognition. Entries for the 2017 David Awards are open until July 31st, and the organiser, Heather Douglas of bizbuzz.co.nz is looking for those ordinary, everyday, Kiwi small business owners who are not afraid of taking on some adversity, those ‘Goliaths’ of the commercial world, and forging success for themselves on their own terms.

“We’re looking for those ordinary people who have a great idea and the sheer grit and determination to turn it into an extraordinary business.”

One business owner who knows all about overcoming adversity in business is last year’s supreme winner Rachel Klaver (pictured), owner of Identity Marketing & Consulting.

“Like any business owner, even when things are going well, there is a huge responsibility to deliver to both your team and your clients,” she says. “To celebrate that hard work and know that others have seen your success is just the best feeling.”

This is the tenth year that The David Awards are being run, and Douglas says it’s rewarding to see how some of the past winners and finalists have evolved. 
“It’s also exciting to have Diane Hurford, whose business Brolly Sheets won the Most Outstanding Transitional Business Category in 2010, join our panel of judges. 

“Diane is truly walking the talk, juggling the demands of a growing family while, at the same time, running a company which is still growing market share and is now exporting and expanding into additional markets.”

Other previous finalists, winners and supreme winners have also gone on to make their mark, including companies like GroutPro (part of the Pro Group), Sachie’s Kitchen, and Pure SEO. 

“Others are remarkable for having stayed the distance, growing neat little businesses around their passion while proving they are in it for the long haul,” says Douglas. “Some examples are The Real Dog Equipment Company, Cosy Toes, Leatherwise, Breastmates, and too many others to mention.”

Entering the David Awards is a piece of cake, as the whole process is conducted online.
Simply go to www.thedavidawards.co.nz and the very best of luck!