frequently asked questions
Awards FAQ & Entry Guide
What are the Business Lismore Awards?
The Business Lismore Awards celebrate outstanding businesses across the Lismore region, recognising excellence, innovation, and contribution to the local community.
Who can enter?
Any eligible business operating within the Lismore region can enter, provided they meet the criteria for their chosen category.
Do I need to be a Business Lismore member to enter?
No. The awards are open to all eligible businesses, regardless of membership.
Why should I enter?
Entering the awards is an opportunity to:
- Gain recognition and credibility.
- Increase visibility for your business.
- Reflect on your achievements and growth.
- Create valuable content for marketing and future opportunities.
Key Dates
- Entries open: Monday the 11th of May.
- Entries close: Wednesday the 10th of June.
- Finalists announced: Monday the 20th of July.
- Awards Gala Event: Saturday the 1st of August.
How much does it cost to enter?
Entry is free. Tickets for the Awards Gala Event will be available for purchase.
Can I nominate my own business?
Yes. Self-nomination is encouraged.
Which category should I enter?
Review the category descriptions carefully and choose the ones that best reflect your business. Our team may contact you if a more suitable category is identified.
Can I enter multiple categories?
Yes, you may enter multiple categories if you meet the eligibility criteria. Only one entry per category is allowed.
How long does it take to complete an entry?
Time will vary, but we recommend allowing enough time to prepare a clear and thoughtful submission aligned with the judging criteria.
Can I include supporting documents?
Please refer to the entry guidelines for details on what can be included. Most submissions are text-based.
Can I get an extension on the deadline?
No. Deadlines are strictly enforced to ensure fairness for all participants.
Who are the judges?
Entries are assessed by an independent panel of experienced judges.
To ensure fairness and integrity, judges remain anonymous and are not disclosed to entrants.
How are judges selected?
Judges are chosen based on their expertise, industry experience, and ability to assess business excellence objectively.
All judges are required to declare and manage any conflicts of interest.
How are finalists selected?
Finalists are determined based on the quality of their submissions and how effectively they address the judging criteria.
There is no fixed number of finalists per category.
How are winners chosen?
Winners are selected based on scoring from the independent judging panel, with the highest-scoring entry in each category receiving the award.
Can small businesses compete with larger businesses?
Yes. Categories are designed to ensure businesses are assessed fairly based on merit, impact, and innovation — not size.
What happens if I become a finalist?
Finalists will be publicly announced on Monday the 20th of July, and we hope you have your tickets ready.
This is a great opportunity to promote your business and celebrate your achievements.
Do i get any feedback?
Yes, Judges feedback will be shared with all entrants after winners are announced.
Levels of achievement
Hall of Fame: Awarded to the entrant who has won the same category for three consecutive years in a row.
Business of the Year: This is not a directly entered category. Winners from eligible categories are re-judged, and the highest-scoring entry is awarded the “Business of the Year” title.
Winners: Awarded to entrants with the highest-scored submission in their category.
Highly Commended: Awarded to any business or individual whose score is within one point of the winning submission.
Can i ask for help?
We suggest you do ask for help, you’re not in this alone.
Ask other colleges for their ideas, other businesses (such as how did you write last year to win) and Business Lismore.
If your question hasn’t been answered above, please contact us.
finalist announced monday the 20th of july
Contact Info
admin@lismorechamber.com.au
0492 902 840