The inaugural Cambridge Independent Business Awards 2024 celebrated the remarkable achievements of local small businesses in a glamorous ceremony held at King’s College, Cambridge. The event showcased the talent and innovation within the region, with winners announced across various categories, highlighting the resilience and creativity of the local business community.
Key Takeaways
- The event featured 14 award categories, recognising excellence in small businesses.
- Alison Wright of Fitzbillies received the Lifetime Achievement Award for her contributions to the local bakery scene.
- TR Global Events won Small Business of the Year, while IQGeo and Costello Medical took home Medium and Large Business of the Year, respectively.
- The evening included entertainment and a silent auction to support local charities.
A Night of Celebration
The awards ceremony was a grand affair, attended by a full house at the Great Hall. The evening began with a heartfelt tribute to the late entrepreneur Mike Lynch, setting a reflective tone for the celebration of local business success.
Alison Wright, co-owner of Fitzbillies, was honoured with the Lifetime Achievement Award. Her journey of reviving the iconic bakery, which faced bankruptcy, resonated with many in the audience. Wright’s dedication to preserving the bakery’s legacy has resulted in its thriving presence in Cambridge today.
Award Winners
The awards were presented across various categories, recognising the diverse talents within the local business landscape. Here are some of the notable winners:
| Award Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Lifetime Achievement Award | Alison Wright, Fitzbillies |
| Start-up of the Year | well:o |
| Small Business of the Year | TR Global Events |
| Medium Business of the Year | IQGeo |
| Large Business of the Year | Costello Medical |
| Business Person of the Year | Peter Burrows, The Cambridge Building Society |
The event also recognised the importance of innovation and sustainability, with awards for categories such as Innovation of the Year and The Green Award, showcasing businesses committed to positive change.
Community Spirit and Support
The Cambridge Independent Business Awards not only celebrated individual achievements but also fostered a sense of community among local entrepreneurs. The evening featured a drinks reception, a magician, and a performance from Encore Entertainment, creating a vibrant atmosphere for networking and collaboration.
The awards also included a silent auction, with proceeds going towards the new Cambridge Cancer Research Hospital, further emphasising the commitment of local businesses to give back to the community.
Looking Ahead
Editor Paul Brackley, who hosted the event, expressed gratitude to the sponsors and participants, noting the high calibre of entries received. He highlighted the importance of such awards in recognising the hard work and dedication of local businesses, encouraging them to continue striving for excellence.
As the night concluded, the excitement for next year’s awards was palpable, with many attendees eager to return and celebrate the ongoing success of Cambridge’s vibrant business community.
Sources
- Winners of the Cambridge Independent Business Awards 2024 are revealed, Cambridge Independent.
- Cambridgeshire small businesses celebrate as awards pile up across region, Cambridge Independent.
- Local small businesses win prestigious business awards, East Anglia in Business.
