Award Categories

With the exception of the Lifetime Achievement Award, which will
honour an individual, all other award categories are awarded to the
enterprise itself.

Award Categories


Micro-Enterprise of the Year

Micro-enterprises and productive families in Bahrain have significant positive impact on their own families’ income, their wider communities and the country through their economic activities and social contributions.

This award category is open to micro-enterprises, productive families and businesses with virtual commercial registration.

Start-Up of the Year

Embarking on business ventures with vision and ambition is a key element of entrepreneurship, be it by starting companies, transferring successful business models to Bahrain or spinning-off new ideas from existing businesses.

The award is open for companies operating for 36 months, or less, as of 31st December 2019.

SME of the Year

Small and Medium-size Enterprises (SMEs) contribute significantly to Bahrain’s economic growth and job creation. The award recognizes their business success, innovative drive and contributions to Bahrain’s economy.

Companies operating for at least 36 months, or less, as of 31st December 2019. With up to 250 employees and/or BD 5 million in revenues can apply for this award.

Enterprise of the Year with International Footprint

Companies of all sizes need to adopt strategies for international growth to achieve scale. This award celebrates Bahraini companies that have successfully internationalized their businesses through suitable strategies.

The category is open to companies of all sizes headquartered in the Kingdom and with international operations.

Sustainability in Business Award

Sustainability has become an important aspect of business operations. This includes incorporating sustainability principles into corporate culture, products and services as well as focusing on positive environmental and social impact of business activities.

All types of companies can apply to compete in this award category, including social enterprises focusing on specific social or environmental needs.

Female Entrepreneur of the Year

The award aims to encourage women to pursue entrepreneurial roles, and celebrate the outstanding achievements of Bahraini businesswomen.

Women in leading positions within their companies be it as part of the founding team of a start-up, business owner, or C-level executive in established companies can apply for this award in addition to the award their companies apply for.

Lifetime Achievement Award

This award honours the achievements of accomplished Bahraini entrepreneurs and businesspersons, who have made significant contributions to Bahrain’s economy and community.

This award is not by application.

Global Enterprise of the Year

This Award category is dedicated to honor an established Bahraini global enterprise that reflects and interjects the Bahraini identity and culture into its products, and contributes to enhancing Bahrain’s regional and international entrepreneurial status through exporting globally competitive Bahrain-made products.