New Rural Business Awards

Norfolk County Council and the Royal Norfolk Agricultural Association have joined forces to launch the new Norfolk Rural Business Awards. The awards will be launched today, (Tuesday 6 February) at the annual Norfolk Farming Conference and are designed to recognise the essential nature and huge importance of Norfolk's rural communities and businesses to the region.

Farmers, young farmers, winemakers, brewers, food producers, agri-tech companies, businesses with close rural connections, and rural community groups are all part of the rural community. With more than 9 different categories from best emerging talent to best farming innovation adopter, it is anticipated these new awards will celebrate exceptional talent and businesses.

Cllr Fabian Eagle, Cabinet Member for Economic Development said: "The contribution that rural businesses and communities make to the lives of everyone in our county is not to be underestimated. Nine willing sponsors have joined with us to make these awards possible so that together we can showcase Norfolk's rural businesses, people and communities. We look forward to putting the spotlight on some of our most hardworking residents and organisations."

Agriculture, forestry and fishing is the fourth largest sector in Norfolk, accounting of 8% of all businesses. And many other businesses across the county are closely linked to the sector including businesses in the accommodation, food, retail, and food science sectors as well as technology and engineering businesses.

Mark Nicholas MBE DL, Managing Director of the Royal Norfolk Agricultural Association said: "We're absolutely delighted to be launching these awards and look forward to announcing the winners at the Royal Norfolk Show in June. Each category will have a specialist judging panel who will visit shortlisted businesses before making their final decision. Some categories lend themselves to direct applications while others focus on nominations or a combination of both."

The entry form for nominations to each category can be found online at www.norfolk.gov.uk/norfolkruralbusinessawards. The entry deadline is 19 April 2024 and judging will include a visit to all shortlisted businesses.

Award categories include:

• Best Rural Community Initiative - sponsored by Aviva
• Best Farming Innovation Adopter - sponsored by Lovewell Blake
• Best Food Producer - sponsored by Fountain Fresh Imports
• Norfolk's Unsung Hero - sponsored by Breckland District Council
• Best Drink Maker - sponsored by Woodforde's Brewery
• Best Farming Champion - sponsored by CLG Norfolk Ltd
• Best Emerging Talent - sponsored by Plant Grow
• Best High Growth Business - sponsored by New Anglia Growth Hub
• Best Sustainable Land Use / Farming Exemplar - sponsored by Birketts LLP