Article Summary
The Investors in People Awards 2025 are now open, and whether you’re a small business, a third sector community, or a global organisation, entering could be one of the most valuable decisions you make this year.
At Investors in People, our purpose is simple: to Make Work Better. Recognising the achievements of those who live and breathe that mission is one of the most powerful ways we can inspire others to do the same.
These people-first business awards don’t just celebrate success, they shine a light on purpose, leadership, culture, wellbeing, and real impact. Open to both Investors in People accredited and non-accredited organisations, the Awards are designed to recognise outstanding people practices across every sector.
If you’re still on the fence, here are 6 reasons why entering The Investors in People Awards 2025 could benefit your organisation.
#1
Celebrate the People Behind Your Success
At the heart of every organisation are the people who drive it forward. The Investors in People Awards shine a light on the leaders, teams and individuals driving positive change in your organisation.
Whether it’s Leader of the Year, Young Person of the Year, Best People Team, or the Investors in People Employee of the Year, these categories allow you to recognise those who live your values and make a daily impact. It’s a moment of gratitude and appreciation that can inspire your entire team.
#2
Showcase your commitment to Purpose and Impact
New for this year is the Award for Excellence in Building Purpose-Driven Impact. A free-to-enter category that celebrates organisations and communities that lead with purpose and create positive impact beyond profit.
Whether you’re a third sector organisation, a business with a strong social mission, or a team running a people-focused initiative; from volunteering and community work to internal inclusion networks; this category is for you.
If your people are driving meaningful change that benefits others, this is your opportunity to be recognised.
Purpose is a growing priority in modern business, and this award gives you a powerful platform to share that story.
#3
Benchmark against the best – whatever your size
You don’t need to be a global business or long-standing Investors in People member to take part. The Investors in People Awards are open to all organisations — accredited or not — and categories are carefully structured to celebrate achievements at every level.
Whether you’re a small business entering Small Employer of the Year, a new member aiming for Best Newcomer, or a global player vying for UK or Overseas Employer of the Year, these awards give you the chance to see how your people strategy stacks up against others in your category.
#4
Share the story behind your strategy
What makes your learning and development programme stand out? How are you using AI and technology to empower your people? What’s driving your approach to health, wellbeing, and employee engagement?
These aren’t just awards, they’re a platform to tell your story. With categories like Best Use of AI and Technology, Health and Wellbeing, Learning and Development, and Employee Engagement, the Awards give you the opportunity to not just be recognised, but to articulate and celebrate the why and how behind your success.
Read some of The Investors in People Awards 2024 finalist case studies
Via - Director of People
allmanhall Ltd
Indigo Swan
#5
Gain Recognition that Boosts Morale, Brand and Reputation
Being shortlisted or winning sends a powerful message to your people, clients, partners and stakeholders.
Your part of a respected community of organisations committed to excellence in leadership, culture, and purpose. It enhances your employer brand, shows you walk the talk, and can even become a key proof point in your recruitment, CSR or ESG strategy.
A finalist badge or winner’s trophy is more than just a symbol. It’s validation.
#6
Enhance Recruitment, Retention and Stakeholder Confidence
External recognition from the Investors in People Awards helps you:
- Attract great candidates who want to work for an award-winning, values-driven employer.
- Retain top performers by reinforcing that their contributions are part of a recognised culture.
- Reassure partners, suppliers, and clients that your organisation is ethical, progressive, and people-first.
It’s a simple yet powerful way to enhance your credibility in a crowded market.
A Fair, Trusted and Transparent Awards Programme
We recently retained our ‘Outstanding’ status from The Independent Awards Standards Council.
That means you can trust the Investors in People Awards as a fair, credible and transparent recognition programme. We take pride in maintaining the highest level of accreditation, not just to deliver a fantastic ceremony, but to ensure that our entry and judging process is robust, impartial and designed to truly celebrate the best individuals and organisations.
Ready to Enter?
The deadline to submit your entry is 29 August 2025.
With over 20 categories — including Best Culture, Inspirational Leadership, Diversity and Inclusion, Employee Recognition, Driving Positive ESG Impact, and many more — there’s never been a better time to tell your story and celebrate the impact you’re making.
Explore all the categories and enter today:
