What Judges Look for in a Winning Entry

Entries to the BASA Awards are now open. 👨‍💻
Nominate your small business for a prestigious BASA Award on basawards.com
To watch part 1 👉 • The Basics: How to nom...
To watch part 2 👉 • Winning Tips: Crafting...
Hi, and welcome to the BASA Awards and the next video in our series to guide you through the nomination process.
Today, we’ll be looking at what components make up a successful nomination. We’ve consulted with our judges for their advice when it comes to making your entry stand out from the crowd.
The Best of America Small Business Awards is a leading US program of the prestigious BASA Awards. They exist to recognize, reward, and promote exceptional small businesses in the United States. Strictly designed for small businesses, the Best of America Small Business Awards exist to help small businesses get the recognition they deserve, by allowing them to compete fairly against other small businesses.
Let's start with your business story. Begin with a brief introduction of your business, explaining what you do in layman’s terms, highlighting what makes you stand out and your key achievements.
Keep it concise and engaging, like a movie trailer that showcases the best parts. Remember, this is not about selling to judges but telling a compelling story that showcases your business's journey and impact. This is going to require all your bragging rights - don’t be shy - make it SHINE. And if it’s noteworthy, don’t hide it in a lengthy paragraph - put it front and center.
Next, focus on your achievements during the eligibility period, which is the last two years. This could be anything from exciting new product launches to staff growth, a successful campaign you run, selling internationally, and so on. The sky's the limit!
Showcase tangible outcomes that make a difference to your customers, colleagues, and your local community at large. We want to see the impact you have had.
Before we move on, let's not forget about the third step: documentation.
It’s best if you add materials to support your application - for example testimonials from satisfied customers or employees, press clippings, or awards you've won along the way can add credibility to your nomination.
Before you submit your entry, proofread it carefully. Spelling and grammar errors are a huge disservice to your work, and let’s face it - they don’t help you shine!
Here is a quick checklist:
Have you said all you need to say clearly and concisely?
Have you checked the word limit for each section and made sure you’ve written enough?
Have you shared your compelling story with us?
Did you write in the third person? Did you demonstrate your impact? If the answer is yes, you’re good to go!
Above all, winners are authentic. It’s not about having changed the world, it’s about showcasing your work in your local community
As we wrap up, keep in mind that a well-told story forms the backbone of any successful nomination. So, craft your story with heart and soul.
We wish you every success. Should you have any questions reach out to us at [e-mail]
THANK YOU FOR YOUR TIME AND GOOD LUCK WITH YOUR NOMINATIONS!