Award-entry writing

Award entries that win and deserve to.

You’ve done the work. We help you tell the story. Clearly, confidently and in a way that gets noticed for the right reasons.

We shape the story, structure the submission and cut the fluff, all to turn your work into a compelling, credible award entry that gives you the best shot at success.

Get started

Turning results into recognition.

We support businesses and organisations of all sizes to identify the right awards and categories, then bring structure, clarity and impact to every entry. Our team includes former journalists, so we know how to ask the right questions, dig into what really matters and shape your story in a way that judges can trust. Also, we know it’s sometimes tough blowing your own trumpet, so we’re here to do that for you.

Just as importantly, we manage the process smoothly, especially when time is short or internal approvals are tricky. You stay in control. We handle the detail.

How it works.

Identify the opportunity.

We research the awards landscape, recommend categories that align with your goals and build a clear calendar of deadlines and activity, so you can plan with confidence.

Shape the entry.

We get to know your organisation, ask the right questions and dig into the detail. You’ll work directly with our expert editorial team who know how to find and shape what really matters.

Make it shine.

We write smart, judge-ready submissions and collaborate with our in-house design team to make each entry visually stand out. You get strategy, writing and creative all in one.

Why clients trust us.

We’re a team of former journalists, strategists and communications experts, and many of us have also sat on judging panels for regional and national awards. That means we know how to find the real story, tell it well and present it in a way judges trust.

We’ve written award entries for private and public sector organisations. Our clients don’t just get shortlisted. They win and they build momentum from it.

Case in point.

Nest .

The brief.

NEST, the government-backed pension provider, wanted to raise the profile of its People team by showcasing their achievements through industry awards. The aim was to secure external recognition, celebrate success and strengthen the organisation’s reputation.

The strategy.

We built a two-year awards calendar, identified the categories that best matched NEST’s objectives and gathered the right evidence to support each entry. Working side by side with the People team, we crafted persuasive submissions that highlighted innovation, impact and culture. We kept momentum high by managing the process end to end – from scoping opportunities through to approvals and final submission.

The point.

NEST was shortlisted for more than five national awards and secured a win, putting its People team firmly in the spotlight. The recognition raised the profile of the organisation, built pride internally and positioned NEST as an employer of choice.

“Strand have been an invaluable partner for us at NEST… proactive and flexible.” – NEST People Team

Other strands.

Media training

Stakeholder management

Internal comms

Public relations

Crisis comms

FAQs.

What value do award entries add beyond trophies?

Award entries aren’t just about recognition, they’re strategic tools. A strong submission can elevate brand reputation, generate press, boost employee engagement, attract talent and position your organisation for future opportunities. Even being shortlisted can increase website traffic and shareability.

Can entering awards help with recruitment and retention?

Yes. Recognition helps build employer credibility. Studies show that organisations highlighted in prestigious awards attract higher-quality candidates, reduce turnover and reinforce internal pride among teams. The awards process itself motivates staff and validates collective effort, leading to higher morale and long-term loyalty.

Do you also advise on which awards or categories to enter?

Absolutely. We start by researching and planning the best programmes for your organisation based on your objectives, impact and the stories you want to tell. This helps identify award categories that align with your strategic goals and gives you the best chance to stand out, before we begin writing.

How quickly can you turn around a submission?

Our process is built for efficiency, not shortcuts. After kick-off, we work methodically: building a remit, gathering evidence, structuring narratives and handling approvals. While fast turnarounds are possible when deadlines demand, the focus is always on precision, clarity and credibility.

What support do you offer for approvals and design?

We manage the entire process, from sourcing evidence to integrating feedback and sign-offs. Then, our in-house design team transforms written entries into visually compelling documents, charts or slide decks. It means one team, one process, clear ownership and outcomes that reflect your brand.

Why choose Strand over a freelance writer?

We’re a team of ex-journalists, advisers and communications specialists, many of whom have sat on judging panels for both national and regional awards. That insight gives us a clear understanding of what works and what doesn’t. We bring strategic thinking, rigour and editorial skill to entries, combined with the process management and creative polish that create winning submissions.

Do you only work with specific sectors or award types?

No. We’ve supported clients across education, finance, retail, public sector, tech and more, from challenger brands to national institutions. Whether you’re looking to elevate your profile, mobilise teams or build momentum for growth, we help shape the narrative and submit a compelling entry.

Ready when you are.

Get in touch