The deal cements a relationship that dates back nearly 25 years, tying up the area’s leading educational provider to promote enterprise and economic success in the region.
This year’s event, celebrating the achievements of companies and entrepreneurs in Dudley, Sandwell, Walsall and Wolverhampton, will take place on Thursday November 20 at The Halls, Wolverhampton, and will be a highlight in the local business calendar.
For 2025 and in a ‘first’ for the competition, the headline sponsor will be responsible for selecting the Business of the Year from the winning firms across 12 different categories.
Vikki Potts, head of the Business School at the University of Wolverhampton, said: “Our relationship with the Black Country Chamber of Commerce is vital in strengthening links between academia and the regional business community.
“It means we can stay attuned to the evolving needs of local industries and help create students who have real-world insights and the knowledge to make an immediate positive difference to companies in the area.
“It seemed a natural progression for us to move our sponsorship of The Black Country Chamber of Commerce Business Awards to the next level and we look forward to being a headline sponsor that proudly champions the companies and entrepreneurs who make our area so special.”
Sarah Moorhouse, chief executive of the Black Country Chamber of Commerce, said: “Collaboration is vital if we are to produce the talent and the companies that provide graduates with the opportunities to stay and prosper in our fantastic region.
“The University of Wolverhampton has been a major supporter of our business community for nearly 25 years, and we welcome it as headline sponsor in what can only be good news for the profile and reach of our awards.”
Entries are now open for this year’s competition, with firms from across the Black Country encouraged to submit their applications to be in with a chance of being honoured at the glittering black-tie dinner.
Awards up for grabs range from Business in the Community, Employer of the Year, and International Trade to Manufacturing Champion, Professional Services Business of the Year, Sustainability and a new category – Black Country Future Star.
Companies have until 5pm on Friday July 25 to submit their applications via www.blackcountrychamber.co.uk/awards. Entry is free for Chamber members.
