This year’s categories include Business Growth and Strategy, Service Excellence, People and Culture, Chief Executive of the Year, For Purpose, Innovation, Sustainability, Marketing, Small Business of the Year, Emerging Leader of the Year, Community Contribution, and International Trade.

Waikato Business Awards head judge Dr Heather Connolly said her team of 31 judges would soon be conducting interviews and site visits to the businesses across the wider Waikato.

“All entrants receive independent assessment and feedback from our experienced judges. It really provides the business with advice to grow, develop and improve.”

Finalists will be announced on September 18 at Ninja Valley, which was the recipient of last year’s People and Culture Award.

The awards recipients will be announced at a gala dinner at Globox Arena in Hamilton on November 15.