Volunteer mentors honoured for transforming Britain's small businesses, one hour at a time

A national awards programme has shone a spotlight on the profound impact volunteer mentors are making on small businesses, often turning struggling enterprises into thriving success stories.

Enterprise Nation is part of a consortium that delivers the mentors for the Help to Grow: Management course, and this year the national Mentoring Matters Awards shone a light on the amazing work the volunteer mentors do to help businesses on the course grow and improve profitability.

The Help to Grow: Management Course's National Mentoring Matters Awards 2026 have recognised extraordinary mentoring relationships that have delivered measurable transformation. Since the volunteer mentoring initiative launched in 2022, mentors have contributed nearly 45,000 hours of their own time to supporting small businesses, creating outcomes that range from doubled profitability to complete strategic overhauls.

Award highlights include:  

Mentor’s Choice Award

Richard Sadler of CJC Aggregates & Landscaping Supplies: It is expected to see a 50% increase in turnover. Nominated by mentor Steve Ennis of Business Doctors, Worcestershire, he said: “Richard has embraced the entire ethos of Help to Grow since September 2024. His bold investments in marketing and strategy have doubled his retail customer base – a true testament to what effective mentoring can achieve.” 

Mentor’s Story Award

Melanie Archbould, Cloud-Busting, Chesterfield: Recognised for transforming her personal journey into a powerful mentoring experience. Melanie explained: “After selling our family-owned business, mentoring helped me turn lived experience into guidance for others. I mentor from the story I have lived, encouraging others with real, evidence-based insights rather than a set script.” 

Outstanding Contribution Award

Bernie Allen of Bernie's Powerhouse Academy in Northern Ireland: Celebrated for the genuine, transformative impact she has made. Her mentee, Ellie Cawdell from the baby and child swimming franchise, Puddle Ducks, said: “Bernie combines deep understanding with practical guidance that has transformed my business and instilled renewed confidence.” 

Most Inspirational Mentor Award

Phineas Mhlanga, London: Applauded for mentorship that reshaped how mentees envision their leadership and overcome challenges. As Ona Ogbonna said: “Phineas’ mentoring did not just improve my business thinking; it transformed my entire approach to leadership.” 

Biggest Impact Award

Steve Ennis, Worcestershire: Honoured for mentoring six cohorts at Worcester University Business School. Nominated by Richard Sadler, who said: “Steve’s enthusiasm and ability to connect quickly with business owners have accelerated my growth in both turnover and margin. His impact has been nothing short of exceptional.”

Steve also reflected: “I was proud to win the Biggest Impact Award and even prouder to see my mentee, Richard, win the Mentor’s Choice Award. His courage to venture into new territories has been transformative.” 

Best Mentor Award Personal Impact

‘Mighty’ Mentor Pete Lonton of Mighty 247 Ltd, Northern Ireland: Recognised for delivering not just technical guidance but personal, life-changing support. Nominated by Richard Healy of TP Supported Accommodation Limited, he was praised for restoring confidence and clarity during pivotal moments of transition. 

Excellence in Mentoring Award

Jurgen Visser, Belfast: Acknowledged for a reciprocal and inspirational mentoring journey, noted by John Hughes of RHI Water Ltd. Jurgen said: “Mentorship is as much a journey for me as it is for my mentees; providing that final spark to help business owners complete their journey is incredibly rewarding.” 

Excellence Through Diversity Award

Roxana Lawton of Azra Strategy & Delivery Ltd, Stockport: Commended for her commitment to building confidence and direction through consistent support, as noted by Jack Eastwood of Eluceda. 

Best Mentor Award Business Impact

Marie Guyot, founder of Scale and Sustain, London: Celebrated for a transformative approach that doubled profitability and sharpened business focus, with Sarah Williams noting the fresh perspective and tangible outcomes from her mentoring. 

Flora Hamilton, CEO of the Chartered Association of Business Schools and executive director of the Small Business Charter, said:

"Behind every thriving business is not just a great idea – but often, a great mentor. These awards are a powerful testament to the enduring impact mentoring has in transforming business leaders and their companies. It is inspiring to see relationships extending far beyond the initial sessions, creating long-term value and innovation." 

Aaron Asadi, CEO of Enterprise Nation, added:

"Mentorship is at the core of what drives business success. Our commitment through the Help to Grow: Management initiative has helped countless entrepreneurs push boundaries and embrace new growth opportunities. The energy and dedication of these mentors truly embody the spirit of innovation needed in today’s business landscape." 

Malcolm Cohen, managing director of Newable Advice, who leads the consortium delivering the mentoring component of the Help to Grow: Management Course, said:

"Over the past four years, the Help to Grow: Management Course has shown time and time again just how transformative structured mentoring can be. When leaders gain access to practical insights and a supportive mentor, they’re able to rethink challenges, refocus on the key priorities for their business and move forward with real momentum. It’s been inspiring to celebrate the programme's success and the measurable progress made through this amazing government initiative at the Mentoring Matters Awards 2026."

The awards, delivered in partnership with Newable, Enterprise Nation, and the Association of Business Mentors on behalf of the Department for Business and Trade, underscore the significant role of mentoring in both immediate business improvements and long-term success.  

About Help to Grow: Management  

Help to Grow: Management is a national initiative designed to empower small business owners with the skills and mentorship needed to drive sustainable business growth. Through expert guidance and strategic advice, the program continues to transform the UK's small business landscape.