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 you can download a hard copy pdf version, complete, sign and post it.
A pdf or hard copy version can also be requested by contacting the Queen's Awards Mailing House 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?
Due to recent postal strikes, we know that many businesses have not received communications about the Queen's Awards for Enterprise and may be having problems sending their applications back to us.
For that reason we will accept applications made online by 5pm on 4th November 2009, providing you have started your online entry before 2pm on 30th October 2009.
We will also accept hard copy applications as long as we receive them before 5pm on 4th November.
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5. Can I send additional supporting evidence to my application?
Applicants who wish to submit additional supporting evidence in the post should note, it needs to arrive before 5pm on 4th November to be included as part of your application. Alternatively we can accept supporting evidence that has been scanned if they are emailed to info@queensawards.org.uk with the application's Unique Reference Number by 5pm on 4th November.
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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 independent qualified accountant's or 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 managing the impact on society and the environment, 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 an applicant will necessarily be granted an Award.
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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 quantity 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 7215 6880) 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 electronic acknowledgement. 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.
Increasingly companies are winning business within the UK as a result of their winning status. Many public sector and large companies now expect their suppliers to show a high level of corporate responsibility and by having a Queen's Awards you will be demonstrating that you meet the highest standards of propriety.
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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 7215 6880
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15. Who do I contact about publicity enquiries?
The Queen's Awards office appoint a PR agency every year who tries to generate media coverage of the Queen's Awards. Find out how they can help you by calling the helpline on 020 7215 6880.
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