With the deadline fast approaching, now is the time to get your 2025 Hunter Manufacturing Awards application into shape. Whether you're applying for the first time or looking to improve on past submissions, these five tips will help you stand out and put your best foot forward.
Tip 1: Carefully consider which category (or categories) you enter
Start by choosing the right category for your submission. You might be eligible to enter more than one, and in many cases, your work may cross over multiple areas.
Ask yourself: is this project primarily about innovative design, or is it a broader example of innovation across your business? For example, one recent applicant submitted an innovative product to the Product Design category, but because it also delivered significant environmental benefits, they entered it in Excellence in Sustainability too.
The same project can be eligible in more than one category, it’s all about how you tailor your response to the specific questions in each.
Tip 2: Read the questions and address all the criteria
Each category has specific questions and scoring criteria. Read them carefully and take time to plan your response. Make a checklist to ensure you cover each point, and don’t leave any sections blank.
Your answers should go beyond general statements. Provide detailed evidence, data, and examples. Explain the challenge, how you approached it, what outcomes you achieved, and why it matters.
Every category has a different focus and weighting. Use the full word count to strengthen your case and respond directly to what the judges are looking for.
Tip 3: Bring together the project team to complete the application
Good applications are rarely written in isolation. Identify who in your business has the knowledge to help answer each section, from operations and leadership, to marketing or finance.
When writing, keep your audience in mind. The judges may not be familiar with your business, your industry, or your technical language. Write clearly and avoid jargon. Aim to tell a compelling story that shows your work, your results, and your impact.
Tip 4: Keep your responses succinct
Stick to the word limits and focus your answers. Use plain language and avoid unnecessary detail.
Instead of listing every technical feature of a new product, explain the real-world benefits. What problems does it solve? What improvements have customers seen? What outcomes were achieved?
Back it up with measurable evidence. Think KPIs, process stats, financial results, and testimonials. Show the scale of your impact, not just the activity.
A short company overview is helpful, but the majority of your content should directly address each question in the application form.
Tip 5: Include supplementary evidence
A strong application is more than just well-written answers. You can also provide supporting evidence, and we encourage you to do so.
Use visuals and links to bring your submission to life. That could include photos, videos, product demonstrations, media coverage, case studies, or your website.
Just make sure each piece of evidence is directly linked to a question in your application. The more clearly it reinforces your written response, the better.
