Croydon Council has been shortlisted in three categories at the Small Business Friendly Borough Awards.
Organised by the Federation of Small Businesses and London Councils, the awards recognise local council support for small businesses.
Croydon is in the running for awards in the Best All Round Small Business Friendly Borough and Best Small Business Friendly Procurement to Support Local Trade categories and councillor Mark Watson, cabinet member for economy and jobs, has been shortlisted for the Best Small Business Champion award. The winners will be announced at a ceremony on 30 March.
The council’s nominations comes just months after it set up a Small Business Commission to explore the barriers to, and opportunities for growth for Croydon’s small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The commission is working with local businesses and stakeholders to explore what could make the borough a more attractive place for SMEs to stay and grow.
The commission’s findings will form a report detailing recommendations for action, which will shape how council services support local businesses to help them grow in the future.
Last month, representatives from a range of local companies had their first opportunity to meet and speak directly with the commissioners about their experiences and the challenges they have faced in trying to grow their business.
Councillor Tony Newman, leader of the council
“It is excellent news that Croydon is a finalist in three of the five award categories. The council understands the integral role small businesses play in creating a strong economy and more jobs in Croydon and these nominations are testament to the council’s work in supporting them.”
Councillor Mark Watson, cabinet member for economy and jobs
“I am delighted to have been nominated and am proud to champion the small businesses in the borough. More and more businesses are recognising the benefits of setting up in Croydon and the council is committed to supporting them, as well as existing businesses, to grow and succeed.”
