Chancellor Rachel Reeves has praised the contribution of Britain's small businesses at a special reception held at No. 11 Downing Street, bringing together some of the UK's most successful and community-focused entrepreneurs.
The event, hosted on Wednesday (3 June), celebrated the contribution of the UK's 5.7 million small businesses to the economy, local communities and wider society. More than 80 recent winners of The Small Awards, organised by Small Business Britain, attended the reception.
Speaking at the event, Reeves said: "Small businesses are the backbone of Britain's economy and it's a privilege to celebrate them at Downing Street today. I know how important it is to help make conditions better for small businesses to thrive, and with our Small Business Plan we're helping cut red tape, give access to finance, cut bills and ensure employees have the skills they need.
"We have the right economic plan, through stability, investment and reform we are building a stronger Britain."
Among those recognised was this year's Small Business of the Year and Heart of Gold award winner, H.M. Pasties, a social enterprise bakery based in Oldham. Founded by Lee Wakeham, the business creates employment opportunities for people leaving prison, inspired by his own experiences of the criminal justice system and work with ex-offenders.
The reception highlighted the diversity of Britain's small business sector, with winners spanning retail, hospitality, technology, sustainability, health services and social enterprises.
Michelle Ovens CBE, founder and chief executive of Small Business Britain, said the event demonstrated the enormous impact small firms have across the country.
"It's more important than ever that we as a nation get behind small businesses, and it's incredibly special to see this recognition from the chancellor and the Treasury," she said.
"Small businesses from a wide range of sectors and locations are being celebrated, and it's a great example of the enormous contribution small businesses make, not only to the UK economy, but also to our local communities."
Lee Wakeham said the Downing Street recognition reinforced the social mission behind H.M. Pasties.
"Winning at The Small Awards was incredible, but being celebrated here at No. 11 Downing Street is amazing and means so much to our team and the Oldham community," he said.
"It really underlines our mission to give people leaving prison the opportunity to rebuild their lives and regain their well-earned place in society."
Now in its 10th year, The Small Awards celebrate outstanding small firms across the UK, recognising innovation, community impact and entrepreneurial success.