Submissions now open

Smart50 is SmartCompany’s premier award program that elevates and celebrates exceptional innovation, growth and the community of small and medium businesses across Australia.

Start your entry now

Download the entry criteria (PDF)

Watch last year's highlights

What the Smart50 recognises

THE SMART50 CATEGORIES

These are 12 dedicated category awards that recognise leaders in community, innovation and more.

Full details on how to apply are available in the Smart50 2025 Entry Booklet — available to download here: Smart50 Awards 2025 Entry Criteria

THE SMART50 AWARDS LIST

For 15+ years, SmartCompany’s annual award list counts down the 50 fastest growing Australian SMEs.

See last year's Smart50 Awards list: Smart50 2024 Winners

Everything you need to know

KEY DATES

MORE INFORMATION

Entries open: June 30, 2025
First entry deadline: September 5, 2025
Final entry deadline: September 12, 2025
Category finalists announced: October 9, 2025
Event date: November 13, 2025

Download the Smart50 2025 entry criteria here: Smart50 2025 Entry Criteria
For further questions about the awards or sponsorship, please contact events@smartcompany.com.au.

ENTRY FEE

Early bird entry: $200
Late entry: $250

The 2025 Smart50 award categories

COMMUNITY HERO AWARD

Sponsored by Optus

Celebrates a business that has supported its clientele or wider community.

RISING STAR AWARD

Sponsored by ASBFEO

Recognises the achievements of high-growth startups younger than three years.

INNOVATOR AWARD

Celebrates initiatives that spark progressive change in an industry through disruptive strategies, digital solutions or original ideas.

RESILIENCE AWARD

Recognises a business that has shown adaptability and leadership.

RETAILER OF THE YEAR AWARD

Sponsored by Lightspeed Commerce

This award celebrates innovations in product offerings and outstanding customer service.

SUSTAINABILITY AWARD

Recognises a business initiative that supports environmental conservation or advocacy.

MARKETING AWARD

Recognises the most impressive marketing campaign from an Australian SME this year.

PEOPLE POWER AWARD

This award celebrates a small business with an enlightened and supportive approach to its people and culture.

EXPORT AWARD

This award celebrates businesses taking their impact to the world stage.

REGIONAL BUSINESS AWARD

This award celebrates thriving businesses in regional Australia.

FOUNDER OF THE YEAR AWARD

Sponsored by Findex

Have you led your business to something great? This one’s for you.

SMART50 AWARD

Sponsored by Optus

The overall winner of the Smart50 is an Australian business that has shown the highest growth over the past three financial years.

Smart50 past winners

Are you the next Smart50 winner?

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“We’ve expanded our retail footprint across Australia, continued our growth in the US market with strong momentum, and launched some of our most ambitious product innovations to date.”

ATHAN DIDASKALOU

Co-founder, July

Winner of the Smart50 Awards 2022

“It [Smart50] provided invaluable third-party endorsement, drawing increased attention to our platform and mission.”

GRANT AUSTIN

CEO, pay.com.au

Winner of the Smart50 Awards 2024

“Every award we win is a win for our entire network, validating the hard work of our Laundry Ladies and Lads and giving them a sense of pride in being part of an innovative and growing business.”