30.04.2026

The Make UK Awards judges read hundreds of entries every year. 

There are good entries, great entries… and then there are winning entries.

From the outside it can be hard to know what makes the difference.

So we’ve asked our judges for their tips on crafting an entry that’s going to stand out. 

Entries are open now, so don’t delay. Applications must be submitted by Friday 19 June 2026, so get working on yours now.

1. Tell a compelling story

Every great entry starts with a great story. Our judges are looking for a narrative, not just a list of achievements. They want a real account of where you started, what you faced and what you did about it.

“I want to see a comprehensive narrative that vividly illustrates the journey your business has undertaken. The distinction between a runner-up and a winner will hinge on how compellingly the story is conveyed.” 

“I want to feel as though I have experienced this transformative journey alongside your business.” 

2. Be clear and structured

A powerful story needs to be easy to follow. Judges are reading dozens of entries, so clarity and a strong structure will help yours stand out for the right reasons.

“The strongest submissions are concise and well-structured, with a clear link between the challenge, the actions taken and the results delivered.” 

3. Back it up with evidence

Good intentions don’t win awards, but a well-demonstrated impact does. Show the judges proof of whatever you’ve achieved.

“I look for clear, measurable impact rather than intent alone.” 

“Judges value clarity, data and outcomes: why does it matter to solve this problem, how does it benefit customers, employees, and the wider industry?” 

4. Show what changed

The judges want to understand what changed between your starting point and where you ended up. Don’t be shy about describing the challenge you faced, as it makes what you achieved all the more impressive.

“The contrast between the ‘before’ and ‘after’ scenarios should be striking and well-documented.” 

“I am particularly interested in understanding how these changes have benefited your employees, the extent of the impact and how it was managed.”

5. Think beyond turnover

There are many different types of growth, so don’t assume that your entry needs to be built around financial performance. We value seeing ambition, innovation and new thinking just as much.

“Growth is not always seen in turnover, but in thinking and ambition.” 

“I want to see passion and excitement. I want to hear about the challenges a business has faced and how it tackled and overcame them. What new and innovative solutions were used?” 

6. Show the human side

Behind every achievement is a team of people battling through difficult challenges. The judges want to hear about them, not just about the numbers.

“As someone who works alongside SME manufacturers every day, I know that the real story of a business is its people.” 

“Show me the human behind the achievement, and you’ll have my attention.” 

7. Be authentic

Don’t try to write what you think the judges want to hear. The entries that stand out are the ones that are honest, direct and genuinely felt.

“Tell me your story, the challenges, the breakthroughs, the parts that surprised you.” 

So don’t delay, enter the Make UK Manufacturing Awards now by clicking on this link.