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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the eligibility criteria to enter this award programme?

To be eligible for the 2degrees Auckland Business Awards, the business must be based in the Auckland region and must have been in operation for at least 12 months.

How do I apply for the award programme?

To apply for the 2degrees Auckland Business Awards, you need to submit an entry for the category of your choice.

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View our categories.

What is the deadline for submitting my application?

The deadline for submitting your application for the 2degrees Auckland Business Awards is July 8th 2024.

Who are the judges for the award programme?

The judges for the 2degrees Auckland Business Awards are a panel of independent industry experts and business leaders. You can view the judges here.

How are the winners selected for the award programme?

The winners for the 2degrees Auckland Business Awards are selected based on the scores assigned by the judging panel.

Can I enter multiple categories in the award programme?

Yes you can! You can enter up to 3 categories, plus People’s Choice.

Is there an entry fee for the award programme?

No, the 2degrees Auckland Business Awards are free to enter.

What region am I in?

Any business of any size located in the Auckland Central area is eligible to enter the Central Auckland awards. The Auckland Central boundaries are:

  • Albert-Eden-Roskill Ward
  • Maungakiekie-Tamaki Ward
  • Orakei Ward
  • Puketapapa Ward
  • Waitemata Ward

Any business of any size located in the North & West Auckland area is eligible to enter the North & West Auckland awards. The North & West boundaries are:

  • Albany Ward
  • North Shore Ward
  • Rodney Ward
  • Whau Ward
  • Waitakere Ward
  • Upper Harbour and Henderson-Massey Ward

Any business of any size located in the South & East Auckland area is eligible to enter the South & East Auckland awards. The South & East Auckland boundaries are:

  • Howick Ward
  • Manukau Ward
  • Manurewa-Papakura Ward
  • Franklin Ward

Can I submit supporting documents or materials with my application?

Yes, you can submit supporting documents or materials with your application. They can be submitted on the last page of your entry form on the online platform.

Will my application be kept confidential?

Yes, your entry for the 2degrees Auckland Business Awards will be kept 100% confidential. All judges sign a confidentiality waiver, and will abstain from judging an entry if there is a conflict of interest.

Can I request feedback on my application?

All entries to the 2degrees Auckland Business Awards receive the judges feedback in December after the regional gala dinners.

When will the winners be announced?

Winners of the 2degrees Auckland Business Awards are announced at the Regional Gala Dinners.

North and West – October 2024
Central – November 2024
South and East – December 2024

Will the winners receive a trophy or certificate?

Yes, the winners of the 2degrees Auckland Business Awards will receive a trophy and all finalists will receive a certificate.

Will there be a ceremony to present the awards?

Yes, each of the three regions has a gala dinner to announce the winners and present the awards for the 2degrees Auckland Business Awards.

Can I share my participation in the award programme on social media?

Yes, you can, and we encourage you to! Feel free to share your participation in the 2degrees Auckland Business Awards on social media, email signatures, your website, etc.

Can I use the award programme logo on my website or marketing materials?

Yes, you can use the 2degrees Auckland Business Awards logo on your website or marketing materials if you are a finalist or winner.

Do I bother entering people's choice if my company is small?

Yes, you should still consider entering the People’s Choice category if you have a small business, as it provides an opportunity to engage with your customers and gain exposure.

What if we can't make the Gala dinner date?

If you are unable to attend the gala dinner for the 2degrees Auckland Business Awards, you can arrange for someone else in your team to collect your award on your behalf on the evening.

NB: You must have a representative of your company at the gala dinner for you to win (if you are a winner).

Do I have to be a 2degrees customer to enter?

No, you do not have to be a 2degrees customer to enter the 2degrees Auckland Business Awards.

Do I have to be nominated to enter? OR Can I still enter if I haven't been nominated by someone?

No, you do not have to be nominated by someone to enter the 2degrees Auckland Business Awards.

Who can submit a nomination for the 2degrees Auckland Business Awards?

The nomination process is open to everyone, including employees, customers, stakeholders, and supporters of the business.

What information do I need to provide when submitting a nomination for the 2degrees Auckland Business Awards?

When submitting a nomination, you will need to provide basic information about the business, such as its name and contact details, as well as a brief explanation of why you think it deserves to win an award.

Can I nominate my own business for the 2degrees Auckland Business Awards?

Yes, you can nominate your own business for the 2degrees Auckland Business Awards. However, you do not need to be nominated to enter!

Is there a deadline for submitting a nomination for the 2degrees Auckland Business Awards?

No, there is not a deadline for submitting a nomination, however, we advise that you submit your nomination at least two weeks before entries close so that your nominated business has time to put their entry together.

How do I nominate a business for the 2degrees Auckland Business Awards?

You can nominate a business for the 2degrees Auckland Business Awards by completing the nomination form here.

How many winners are typically chosen in each category?

There is one winner chosen in each category per region.

How long does it typically take to complete the application?

The time it takes to complete the application may vary depending on the category and the amount of information you need to provide. However, it is recommended to allocate at least an hours or two per question to complete the application, and then another 2-4 hours to review with your team, make amendments and submit. 

Can I get help with my application from a professional writer or consultant?

Yes, you can get help from a professional writer or consultant to assist you with your application.

Should I provide financial statements in my application?

It is recommended to provide financial statements in your application, as this helps demonstrate the financial health and stability of your business.  You can always provide explanations around your financials, investment into R&D, purchasing of a builder, increase in employee numbers.

How important is it to have a clear and concise application?

It is essential to have a clear and concise application as judges may be reviewing numerous applications and want to quickly understand the key information about your business. For example, if you’re going to use acronyms, remember to spell them out at least once so that the judges have a clear understanding. 

Can I enter the award programme if my business is not yet profitable?

Yes, you can still enter the award program if your business is not yet profitable. 

Can I enter the award programme if I am not based in the country where the award programme is being held?

No, you can only enter the award program if your business is registered and based in Auckland, New Zealand.

Can I enter the award programme if I have won awards in other competitions?

Yes, you can still enter the award program if you have won awards in other competitions.

How can I demonstrate the impact of my business on the community or industry?

You can demonstrate the impact of your business on the community or industry by providing examples of community involvement, social responsibility initiatives, and how your business has positively impacted the industry.

Can small businesses compete with larger companies in the award programme?

Yes, small businesses can compete with larger companies in the award program, as each category is typically judged based on specific criteria that are applicable to businesses of all sizes.

How important is it to have a strong online presence for my business?

Having a strong online presence is increasingly important for businesses, and it can help demonstrate your ability to effectively market and communicate your business to potential customers.

How important is it to have a unique story or selling point for my business?

Having a unique story or selling point can help differentiate your business from others and make it more memorable to judges and potential customers.

How can I increase my chances of winning the award?

To increase your chances of winning the award, it’s important to showcase your business’s unique qualities and achievements in a clear and concise manner. Highlight what sets your business apart from others in your industry, and provide specific examples of your successes and impact on your community. It’s also important to ensure that your application meets all of the eligibility and judging criteria for the award program.

Can I reapply for the award programme in future years?

Yes, you can reapply for the award program in future years as long as you continue to meet the eligibility criteria.

Do I have to share my financials? What happens if I don't share my financials?

While sharing financials is not a requirement for the award program, it may be beneficial to do so as it can help demonstrate the financial success and stability of your business. If you choose not to share your financials, it may not necessarily disqualify you from the award program, but it could impact your chances of winning.

Do I have to be an Auckland Business Chamber member to enter?

No, being a member of the Auckland Business Chamber is not a requirement to enter the 2degrees Auckland Business Awards. However, submitting an entry will provide you with a one-year complimentary membership of the Chamber, providing you with access to services and benefits making it easier for you to do business.