Introduction
We are absolutely delighted to launch the 2025 Torfaen, Monmouthshire & Blaenau Gwent Business Awards. This year marks an exciting step forward as we welcome Blaenau Gwent into the awards for the very first time, ensuring that all three counties are recognised and celebrated for the strength of their businesses, the passion of their entrepreneurs, and the diversity of their industries.
The business community in Torfaen, Monmouthshire and Blaenau Gwent continues to grow at an impressive pace. Together, these areas are establishing themselves as must-visit destinations, with their stunning countryside, remarkable industrial heritage and thriving business parks attracting new visitors, new investment and new opportunities. These awards give us the chance to shine a spotlight on the individuals and organisations at the heart of this growth; those who are creating jobs, driving innovation, supporting their communities, and inspiring future generations of entrepreneurs
Liz Brookes
Founder of the Torfaen, Monmouthshire & Blaenau Gwent Business Awards
Director of Grapevine Event Management
Our Judges
Alison Williams
Alison’s career has spanned over 35 years in the textiles industry, managing several manufacturing and distribution businesses in Torfaen and neighbouring boroughs. Her business management experience covers Design , technical, manufacturing, distribution, and Sales. Alison’s hobbies are unsurprisingly textile related and enjoys teaching sewing in her free time.
Robert Lloyd Griffiths OBE
Robert Lloyd Griffiths OBE is ICAEW’s Director for Wales. He holds several non-executive and advisory positions and was previously the National Director for the IoD in Wales. He has a degree in banking and finance from Cardiff Business School and was awarded his OBE in the 2014 Queen’s Birthday Honours for services to the economy and voluntary services in Wales.
Liz Brookes
Founder of the Torfaen, Monmouthshire & Blaenau Gwent Business Awards and Director of Grapevine Event Management.
Liz Brookes is the Owner and managing director of Grapevine Event Management Ltd. A graduate of Cardiff University in Social Policy, Liz went on to carve a career in the events industry, responsible for organising events throughout Europe and the UK for numerous corporations, most prominently the Society for Endocrinology and the Audit Commission.
Liz founded Grapevine Event Management in March 2011 and it is now one of the most well recognised corporate events companies in Wales delivering high quality creative and innovative events across the UK.
Faqs
How many categories can I enter?
You can enter up to 2 categories.
Is my company eligible to enter the awards?
The business must be located within the local authority area of Torfaen, Monmouthshire or Blaenau Gwent and business rates must also be paid to Torfaen, Monmouthshire or Blaenau Gwent Council. The business should have started to trade on or before 27th November 2024.
Can I save my application form and return later?
The application form is required to be completed in one go as you cannot save and return later. We suggest you make a note of the application questions and prepare offline before submitting your details.
What is the judging process?
The judging process can be found here.
How long is the interview?
The interview should take no longer than 15 minutes. A 5 minute presentation and 10 minutes of Q&A. We request no computer aids, as we would love to hear the passion come from you directly.
How many people can attend the interview?
We kindly request that only 2 representatives attend the interview.
Can someone attend in my absence?
Yes of course, we welcome any passionate member of your company/ team to attend to let us know why you are so great!
If I/my company is shortlisted, do I get any free tickets to the Awards night?
Everyone is asked to purchase tickets from the website in advance of the evening. Priority is given to shortlisted companies and sponsors but it is on a first come first served basis so you are advised to book early to guarantee the tickets you require.
How much are tickets for the Torfaen, Monmouthshire & Blaenau Gwent Business Awards?
Tables of 10 can be purchased for £930+VAT, individual tickets are £93+VAT. Payment must be made prior to the event.
What is included in the ticket price?
The ticket includes a drinks reception with entertainment and a 3 course meal with coffee, prior to the awards ceremony
How do I book tickets for the Awards?
You can purchase your tickets via the booking link, we will be in touch to confirm your order and request any dietary or access requirements.
Are tickets refundable?
Refunds are available as long as cancellation is received no later than 10 days prior to the event. Read our full T&C’s here.
Are tickets transferable?
Yes, just let us know their full name contact details (including name, job title and organisation and if they have any dietary requirements).
What are the timings for the Awards?
The agenda for the evening is:
6:30pm Arrival drinks
7:15pm Guests seated
7:45pm Dinner served
9:30pm Awards
11pm Celebrating and Networking
Midnight Evening closes
Where are the awards held?
The awards are held at Parkway Hotel, Cwmbran Drive, Cwmbran, Torfaen, NP44 3UW. Directions can be found here.
Is there parking available?
There is limited parking available at the hotel.
What’s the dress code?
The dress code is Black Tie.
Can I pre-order wine?
Yes, a form will be sent to you once your ticket booking has been confirmed.
