Frequently Asked Questions

I delivered a great piece of work a couple of years ago but couldn’t submit it for commercial reasons. Is it worth entering now?

Yes. You can enter work completed in the last three years (as of 31 December in the year before the entry deadline). Older projects can make it easier to evidence business impact, and sign-off is often easier once the work is less sensitive.

Does my project have to be carried out in the UK to be eligible?

From 2026, entries must show at least one of the following:
•   a project conducted for the UK market
•   a project that has had an impact on UK healthcare or business performance
•   a project that was led and majority-delivered by UK-based teams, regardless of the markets in project scope

My project is small and UK-only. Can it compete with a big global study?

Yes. Impact is judged relative to objectives and context. A UK project with clear outcomes can score as well as a large, multi-market programme.

Can I enter the same project in more than one category?

No. A project may only be entered in one category.

Is there a limit to how many entries my organisation can submit?

No. You can submit multiple entries, as long as each is a different project. Judges reserve the right to limit the shortlist

Can I enter a category my company is sponsoring or judging?

Yes. Sponsors are welcome to enter the category they sponsor, as it often aligns with their area of expertise. To ensure impartiality, judges may not take part in judging a category their company has entered. This guarantees the process remains fair and transparent for all entrants.

Can I re-enter a project I submitted previously?

Yes, if it didn’t win and you have new supporting evidence (e.g. later phases, new analysis, clearer impact). Work still needs to fall within the 3-year window.

My project is good but not especially innovative. Is it worth entering?

Yes. The BOBI Awards reward excellent, well-delivered business intelligence with demonstrable impact. Only the Best Use of Innovation category requires clear innovation

What about confidentiality? Who will see my entry?

Judges sign a confidentiality undertaking and are screened for conflicts. You can name any organisations you don’t want to view your entry and those judges will be excluded. Please exclude only where absolutely necessary, so we can manage the judging process effectively.

Do I have to involve the client?

Agencies can submit an entry on their own. However, joint entries and evidence of collaboration tend to be stronger. You can also credit subcontractors, e.g. fieldwork/data partners.

Can the product/therapy area be blinded?

Yes. You can generalise the therapy area if the client prefers. If you can name it, it usually makes the entry more specific and compelling but it’s not mandatory.

Is there any flexibility on the deadline?

No. The 17:00 deadline is strict. If you’re waiting for sign-off, submit anyway and you have two business days to withdraw by emailing admin@bhbia.org.uk. You can’t amend after submission.

Will I get feedback?

Yes. All entrants receive constructive feedback. Non-shortlisted entries will receive feedback when the shortlist is announced and finalists after the winners are announced.

How will I know my entry has been received?

You’ll see an on-screen confirmation as soon as your entry form is successfully submitted. Please take a screenshot for your records. If you don’t see the confirmation screen, or have any concerns about whether your entry has uploaded correctly, contact admin@bhbia.org.uk
straight away. Please don’t wait until after the deadline.

Who do I contact with any other questions?

Email admin@bhbia.org.uk.