When Danny Dawes was looking to add more money to his family's finances through ebay he had no idea that he was about to create a business that would do much more than pay the bills. Danny soon realised his family’s needs paled in comparison to those of too many others in his community. Before long he had created Grandad's Front Room CIC – a hub for everyone in Bognor Regis in need of help whether practical, financial or emotional.
The awards are now in their third year and continue to celebrate those that help their communities and local charitable causes.
This year's regional finalists have been selected!
We're delighted to announce that Kilted Lobster is the winner of the 2018 Small Business Big Heart Award. Just like last year, the Small Business Big Heart Award entries were wide and varied, every one telling a compelling story about the amazing efforts each small business undertakes to help individuals, organisationsand causes that benefit from their support.
The Picturedrome Electric Theatre, Bognor Regis
For their incredible support for local community events, organisationsand sports clubs
Sardaya Hair and Beauty, Swindon
For their local fundraising activities and practical support for the elderly, homeless, children and babies in their community
Pearl's Pet Care, Forres
For their 36-year long work in animal welfare, environmental safeguarding, community care and regional business development
Bluefin Living, Birmingham
For a business ethos built on tackling the UK's housing crisis
Pearl’s Pet Care receives special recognition due to its long-term support of animal welfare, environmental safeguarding, community care and regional business development.
From connecting the community to raising funds, meet our Small Business Big Heart Finalist that races for lives.
An award winning chef makes social consciousness a main ingredient in his business.
We have launched our search for the small business with the biggest heart! And we want to give back for your generosity. Are you a small business that gives back to their local community? Or do you know a small business that does so? We want to hear about it!
Our hunt for the small business with the biggest heart is over. We’re delighted to announce the first-ever winner of our Small Business Big Heart Award.
For providing sports and active pursuits to transplant survivors and people in need
Trilby A Hair Academy, Winchester
For training to people who are unable to access college qualifications and free cuts to the homeless.
Village Stores Mickleton, Mickleton
For its refurbishment of Mickletons historic landmarks and organisation of cohesive community events.
Phil Anderson Financial, Aberdeen
For its incredible donations to the city’s homeless.
When Andrew Seery came out of foster care aged 14, he worked with his birth mum in a hairdressers’. Having a clear talent for the profession, he was soon offered a job and progressed to become a partner in the salon.
Stevie Woodrow was recovering from a kidney transplant on Christmas day in 2012. He was keen to return to sport, but there were no established teams he could join.
Louise Rayner set up her dog grooming business, Wagglebumz, in June 2015. From the outset her love for the dogs in her care was paramount so, in addition to giving them a good groom, she always made time for play – sending each dog on its way looking good and feeling happy.
Karen Tyas is a Penistone girl with a passion for baking that was instilled in her by her grandmother when she was a child. She’s worked in catering since she was 15 and her ambition was always to own a café and cake shop of her own.
Cheeky Monkeys Chippy in Great Wyrley is a relatively new business. Established in the early part of 2016, proprietor Sabrina Ludhera was keen to become an established part of the community.
The Village Stores in Mickelton is more than a just a convenience store, proprietor Harj Dharsee has made it the hub for the local community - who don’t just pop there for a pint of milk.
When Shelly Redding was out walking her dogs in spring 2014 Rocco, her staffy cross, was stolen from her by a man in the park. Determined to get him back Shelly initiated a campaign using local media and social media which was supported by numerous local dog charities.
Our Local Community Business Heart award winner, Phil Anderson Financial, first became involved in charities through Legal and General, when it ran a scheme which donated to the national charity, Shelter, every time a mortgage was arranged.