The finalists of this year’s East Midlands Chamber Business Awards have been revealed and SMB College Group is proud to announce that it’s competing for the Education and Business Partnership Award!

Finalists were announced at the President’s Summer Celebration event at the Radisson Blu East Midlands Airport hotel last month, during which the College was revealed to be a finalist for its excellent approach to business partnerships within the education sector. 

Dawn Whitemore, Chief Executive and Principal of SMB College Group, said ‘We are so delighted to have been recognised yet again for our pro-active approach to involving businesses and employers in every step of our Education offer, whether that’s through holding Employer Skills Forums, setting up apprenticeship programmes, or working together to provide excellent work experience opportunities for our learners.

‘This exciting nomination comes on the back of us winning Apprenticeship Provider of the Year at the 2022 AAC Apprenticeship Awards, and a 2023 Nachural Entrepreneurship Award for Promoting Apprenticeships. We are so proud that our efforts are continually recognised, as we understand how important it is for us to play our part in developing essential skills and contributing to the economic stability of our local regions.

Situated in the heart of the East Midlands, SMB College Group is a leading provider of Education, Apprenticeships and Business Training. The College works in collaboration with a number of industry leaders to provide life changing opportunities for its students. Partners include Leicester Tigers, Worcester Bosch, Resideo, Redrow, Barratt Homes and many more.

The College is being recognised for its excellent work with Businesses and the wonderful partnerships that they have successfully established, through which they have created fantastic experiences for students and apprentices, whilst also helping businesses to secure their future workforce and remain key players in their sectors.

Around 150 organisations from across Derbyshire, Leicestershire and Nottinghamshire have been recognised in the annual East Midlands Chamber awards, celebrating the region’s world-class business community. The awards feature 14 categories, ranging from Community Impact and Excellence in Collaboration to Excellence in Innovation and Commitment to People Development.

Finalists will now have a chance to state their case at virtual judging panels taking place in September. Panels will comprise sponsors, a Chamber board member and a representative from the Chamber’s senior leadership team. The official awards gala will take place in November.

The College is so proud to be nominated and are excited to have this opportunity to celebrate their employer links and long-term partnerships.

If you’re interested in partnering or collaborating with SMB College Group, get in touch with the helpful team at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or call 01530 836 136.