British SMEs are being encouraged to enter a government-run award scheme designed to celebrate exporting success, with previous winners crediting the accolades for helping them secure overseas deals and broaden their global reach.

The Department for Business and Trade (DBT) has opened applications for its Made in the UK, Sold to the World awards, which were first launched in 2021. New categories this year include ‘digital and technology’ and ‘export services’, joining existing categories such as food and drink, education and edtech, and low-carbon energy.

Winners will receive a free business membership to the Chartered Institute of Export & International Trade, as well as an invitation to a parliamentary reception. A number of past recipients say that the prize has heightened the reputation and credibility of their businesses, making it easier to expand into fresh markets.

Tom Warner, co-founder of Warner’s Distillery, attributes securing distribution in Italy and New Zealand partly to winning in the food and drink category in 2024: “Distributors don’t say ‘we’re working with you because you won that award’, but it’s part of your pedigree and due diligence … [It] gives distributors the confidence to have a go.”

Poonam Gupta, founder of PG Paper, another 2024 winner, said the accolade added “credibility to the company, which makes it easier for us to open new markets and sell to new customers”. PG Paper now exports to over 60 countries, with exports accounting for the majority of its sales.

Anna White, founder and managing director of Scotlandshop, won the award in 2023. Her tartan goods business has been exporting since 2002 and recently opened a shop in Albany, New York. “The awards are a great way to meet other exporters, learn from each other and showcase what your business does,” she said.

Glasgow-based Munro Vehicles, a designer and manufacturer of electric vehicles, won in 2024. Chief executive Russ Peterson said the award had “kickstarted several conversations with businesses outside of the UK for vehicle supply”, helping pave the way for discussions on overseas distribution channels.

The push to encourage more businesses to trade internationally comes as the Centre for Economic Performance reported a £27 billion drop in goods exports to the EU post-Brexit. Gareth Thomas, minister for services, small businesses and exports, believes the awards will inspire small firms to explore export opportunities. “When small businesses export, it opens a wealth of incredible opportunities,” he said.

Successful applicants gain more than just a trophy: the DBT supports first-time exporters by providing advice and essential paperwork guidance for overseas markets. Award winners say the experience has helped them build contacts, validate their credentials, and ultimately expand their sales abroad.

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Government calls for small businesses to enter ‘Made in the UK, Sold to the World’ export awards