The David Awards exist to recognise and celebrate the "heroes of small business"—those who punch well above their weight with courage, tenacity, and heart. For many years, we have championed the idea that size does not dictate impact, and that excellence is found in the grit of everyday operations just as much as in a boardroom.
Our ethos is built on the following principles:
Championing the "Little Guy" Nationwide
We are dedicated to the small business owner, regardless of their industry or where they are located in New Zealand. Our programme is designed to lower the barriers to entry, ensuring that brilliance isn't sidelined by complex bureaucracy. We provide a platform where any venture can gain the credibility and recognition it truly deserves.
A Distinctive Standard of Excellence
We don't measure small businesses by the same yardstick used for large corporations. While we admire more traditional "big business" frameworks, we recognise that they don't always reflect the unique realities of a smaller enterprise. We happily co-exist with these larger awards programmes and take pride in acting as a "feeder" event—helping our entrants build the confidence and professional standing to take on even bigger stages in the future.
Professionalism with an Informal Heart
While we maintain a casual and approachable tone, our standards are uncompromising. We believe that professionalism isn't about being stiff or corporate; it’s about doing the work, meeting deadlines, and delivering quality. We value "casual rigour"—a friendly environment backed by solid governance and structure.
Absolute Integrity and Fairness
Integrity is the cornerstone of our awards. With a long-standing history in the New Zealand business community, we treat every entry with respect, ensuring a level playing field for all. Our judging process is fair and transparent, evaluating each business on the merit of their entry and their demonstrated commitment to excellence.
Practical Excellence and Respect
We celebrate the practical realities of running a business. We understand that entrepreneurship involves inherent risk and that the journey is rarely a straight line. Our focus is on recognising the excellence achieved in the here and now, providing finalists and winners with an authentic stamp of professional approval while remaining good stewards of the stories shared with us.
