The Theo Paphitis #SBS Small Business Award
We are thrilled to introduce a brand-new award in partnership with Theo Paphitis and #SBS Small Business Sunday.
The Theo Paphitis #SBS Small Business Award
For 15 years, Theo Paphitis has given small businesses a national platform for visibility, confidence and community. With an impressive 80 percent of winners being women founders, #SBS has become one of the strongest grassroots springboards for early-stage female entrepreneurship.
This new #SBS-exclusive award celebrates the women who have used their #SBS win as a catalyst for momentum, innovation and growth. It sits alongside the full suite of EVAS categories, giving #SBS winners an additional opportunity to shine while still entering any other categories that reflect their achievements.
If you’re part of the #SBS community… this is your moment.
Why This Award Matters
The Enterprise Vision Awards are committed to championing women who are building, growing and leading businesses across every sector. By introducing the Theo Paphitis #SBS Small Business Award, we’re recognising a community of founders who embody resilience, creativity and entrepreneurial courage.
This award deepens our partnership with one of the UK’s most influential small business champions and shines a national spotlight on the determination and innovation that drive the UK’s small business economy forward.
Who Should Enter
This category is open exclusively to #SBS winners who won before Tuesday 5 May 2026. No matter when you won, or whether you’re a sole trader, early-stage founder, side-hustler or scaling entrepreneur, if SBS has been part of your journey, this one’s for you.
You should enter this category if you have:
• grown, evolved or strengthened your business since winning #SBS
• used the visibility or confidence from your win to unlock new customers or opportunities
• shown resilience through challenges or uncertainty
• innovated, adapted or expanded your products, services or approach
• influenced others through generosity, collaboration or visible leadership
• built a business with clear purpose and ambition for the future
And remember, you are encouraged to enter any other EVAS categories where your achievements fit. #SBS winners often shine in multiple areas.
How Finalists Are Chosen
When entries close, eight finalists will be selected for the #SBS Small Business Award. Theo Paphitis and his team will be directly involved in the review process.
These eight finalists will each receive a complimentary place at the EVAS ceremony on Friday 2 October, seated together on the official #SBS Table.
Please note: if you are not shortlisted for the #SBS Small Busienss Award, you may still be shortlisted for any other EVAS category you enter.
Important Information About Attendance
Only finalists in the Theo Paphitis SBS Award and the Not For Profit category receive a complimentary place at the awards.
If you are shortlisted for any category, you are expected to attend the ceremony in person. Being there is an essential part of the finalist experience. It’s your moment on stage, your interview, your official photographs and the chance to celebrate with the EVAS community.
Substitutions are not permitted. Over the years, we’ve seen how much finalists value being in the room for their big moment. Nothing compares to stepping onto the stage yourself, hearing your name announced and sharing that unforgettable experience first-hand.
We want every finalist to enjoy the full EVAS journey with pride, excitement and the recognition they’ve earned.