Why sponsoring Tees Business awards is about much more than marketing
AWARDS
Winners – RS Industrial Services were crowned the Tees Business of the Year in 2025.
FEEL-GOOD FACTOR
Why sponsoring Tees Business awards is about much more than marketing
For many businesses, sponsoring a Tees Business awards event begins as a commercial decision.
It offers brand exposure, profile-raising opportunities, networking and the chance to align with some of the Tees region’ s most successful and ambitious companies.
But according to the team behind Tees Business, the real benefits often go much deeper than logos, tables and publicity.
Over the last decade, Tees Business has delivered a growing portfolio of prestigious events including the Tees Businesswomen Awards, the Tees Business Awards, Tees Tech Awards, VelociTees and the Aycliffe Make Your Mark Awards- all designed to celebrate the people and organisations helping drive the region forward.
And while sponsors enjoy significant marketing and promotional opportunities before, during and after each event, directors Martin Walker and Dave Allan say many supporters discover unexpected rewards too.
Martin said:“ The commercial benefits are obviously important and there’ s no doubt our events provide huge visibility for sponsors across Tees Business magazine, social media, films, websites, email campaigns and the events themselves.
“ But what we often hear afterwards is how much it lifted morale internally within their own teams.
“ When staff see their business supporting positive regional events, celebrating success and recognising local achievement, it creates a real sense of pride. Employees genuinely enjoy being part of it.”
Many sponsors also use awards events as an opportunity to reward staff, entertain clients and strengthen relationships with customers and suppliers in a relaxed and celebratory environment.
From hosting tables to presenting awards on stage in front of hundreds of business leaders, sponsorship often helps businesses create memorable experiences that extend far beyond traditional advertising.
Dave believes sponsorship also demonstrates a wider commitment to the region’ s growth and success.
He said:“ There’ s a strong corporate social responsibility element to what we do.
“ Our awards celebrate entrepreneurs, apprentices, charities, innovators, manufacturers, community champions and businesses making a real difference across the Tees region.
“ By sponsoring categories and supporting these events, companies are actively investing back into the business community and helping us shine a spotlight on positive stories that deserve recognition.”
Tees Business events have also helped raise around £ 60,000 for local charities over the years, while many award categories specifically celebrate social impact, education, skills and community support.
Sponsors are frequently associated with those positive messages, helping
Celebration – all the winners on stage at the end of the 2025 Tees Businesswomen Awards.
reinforce their own values and reputation within the region.
Martin added:“ People buy from people and they also remember businesses that support their communities.
“ Our sponsors become part of something bigger than just a one-night event. They’ re helping champion the Tees region and backing the businesses and individuals who make it such a special place.”
With Tees Business celebrating 10 years of“ Talking Up Teesside” in 2025, demand for sponsorship opportunities across its events portfolio continues to grow.
And for many companies, supporting the region’ s biggest business celebrations is proving to be about far more than simply marketing.
It’ s about pride, purpose and people – and playing a role in the ongoing success story of the Tees region.
To get involved in future awards events, call the Tees Business team on 01642 450255 or email info @ teesbusiness. co. uk
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