Five tips to help you write a winning entry for the FSC Awards 2025

The FSC Awards are all about celebrating the great work happening across New Zealand’s financial services sector. They’re a rare chance to recognise the innovators, hard workers, and forward-thinking businesses who do so much to help Kiwis secure a better financial future.

If you'd like to throw your hat in, or know a person or business that deserves recognition, we've made it easier than ever to enter with a streamlined, straight forward process. To get you started, here are five straightforward tips to help you put together an entry that stands out. 

1. Pick the category that fits you or your business best

Before you start writing, take a moment to explore the award categories. These include new categories like Innovation of the Year and Excellence in ESG, plus legacy awards such as recognition for community contributions and Excellence in Wellbeing and Inclusion.

Check out the full list of categories here and think about where your organisation may stand out most.

2. Answer every question fully

Judges can only go on what you put in your submission, so make sure you cover all parts of every question. Take your time to answer thoroughly and clearly. And remember, some questions count toward your overall score more than others, so use the criteria weighting to help you prioritise (you’ll find these weighting percentages next to each question).

3. Show the impact you've made

Don’t make vague or unsupported claims. The judges want to see the facts, figures, and examples to substantiate your stories and quantify the real impact you’ve had on a community or business. 

And don’t worry - there is no need to be concerned about the confidentiality of your information when providing evidence, as all judges sign confidentiality agreements and are excluded from participating in categories in which they may have a conflict of interest.

4. Don't miss the submission deadline

Nominations and entries close on Sunday 29 June 2025. In exceptional circumstances, the deadline for submission may be extended by a maximum of five working days.

A request for an extension must include an explanation as to why it is being sought and must be made in writing to events@fsc.org.nz.

5. Need a hand? Just ask. 

If you’re stuck or unsure about anything, don’t hesitate to reach out. There are no silly questions. The FSC team is here to support you - email events@fsc.org.nz or call +64 (09) 802 1532 during business hours if you need a hand. 

Want to get started?

• Download the FSC Awards 2025 Criteria Pack to find out more and download the nomination forms you need to enter.
• Buy tickets to the two-day day conference and awards dinner, on Thursday 11 September.