Judging & Proprietor’s Powers

Judging Panel – judges make final decisions based on fairness, transparency, and merit.

Proprietor’s Powers – the Proprietor holds ultimate authority to revoke, recall, or quash any award if misconduct, false information, or criminal charges are proven.

Integrity Rule – this authority applies to all awards issued from 2020 onward, ensuring winners meet ethical standards.

Safeguard – these powers protect the reputation of the PNG SME Awards and uphold trust in the program.

Judging Criteria – What Judges Look For

  • Growth Metrics – judges check if the business is expanding.

    Employee growth: more jobs created.

    Customer base: more clients or bigger reach.

    Assets & revenue: increase in property, capital, or sales.

    • Why growth matters: growth shows strength, sustainability, and economic impact.

    Innovation & Creativity – judges look for fresh ideas.

    Unique solutions: different from competitors.

    Creative problem-solving: smart ways to overcome challenges.

    Use of technology: digital tools to improve work.

    • Why innovation matters: innovation keeps SMEs competitive.

    Sustainability & Scalability – judges measure responsible growth.

    Sustainability: eco-friendly and socially responsible.

    Scalability: ability to expand into new markets.

    Why sustainability & scale matters: sustainable, scalable businesses have long-term potential.

    Community & Impact – judges see how the business helps society.

    Community engagement: supporting local projects.

    Social impact: improving lives, especially for women, youth, or marginalized groups.

    Economic contribution: boosting local economies and jobs.

    Why impact matters: SMEs that uplift communities create lasting value.

Special Rules & Procedures

  • Single Entry Protocol – if only one entry is in a category, it must still meet the minimum benchmark score to win.

  • Disqualification – entries with false info, ethical breaches, or missing requirements can be removed.

  • Tiebreaker – if scores tie, judges rescore. If still tied, the adjudicator decides.

  • Special Award Provision – in rare cases with no nominees, an exceptional entrepreneur may be recognized, but this award won’t qualify for the highest honor.

  • Pay-Forward Protocol – if a category winner is chosen but funding is missing, the award is announced and benefits delivered later when sponsorship is secured.

  • Proprietor’s Authority – the Proprietor can revoke awards if winners are later found guilty of misconduct, false claims, or criminal charges. This rule applies to all awards from 2020 onward.