Harpreet Kaur, winner of BBC’s The Apprentice, to host Bury Free Press West Suffolk Business Awards 2025

The host of the Bury Free Press West Suffolk Business Awards 2025 has been revealed.

Harpreet Kaur, winner of BBC’s The Apprentice in 2022, will take over from Becky Jago in hosting the prestigious gala event.

This year’s ceremony, on October 10 at The Apex, in Bury St Edmunds, will celebrate the best in business from across the region in a range of categories, while it is also a great chance for business minds and entrepreneurs to connect and develop.

Harpreet was the first South Asian winner of the Lord Sugar-fronted show, securing a £250,000 investment from him upon winning.

With a background in retail banking and management, she scaled her dessert business to six-figure profits and now holds a range of business interests.

Harpreet said: “I’m delighted to be coming to Bury to host this year’s business awards.

“As a small business owner myself, I understand the highs, lows, trials and tribulations of entrepreneurship. It's super exciting to be part of an evening celebrating the achievements of some of the amazing innovators out there that are helping push our economy forward which feels more important than ever.

“I can’t wait to see the range of local business talent on show and I’m looking forward to meeting with and speaking to all the nominees and sponsors. Good luck to all.”

Harpreet also works as a public speaker, making her the perfect candidate to take over from Becky Jago, who had a successful two years hosting the awards.

She is passionate about inspiring women and the next generation to pursue their goals with confidence.

Jonathan Tewson, head of Iliffe Media awards and events, said: “We’re so excited to have Harpreet on board for this year’s awards.

“A dynamic and exciting innovator, Harpreet knows the ins and outs of the business world and is a great addition to the event. I can’t wait to see her with mic in hand.”

To find out more and nominate, click here.

The categories in full and their sponsors are:

1. Lifetime achievement – Jaynic
2. Investing in West Suffolk – West Suffolk Council
3. West Suffolk Award for Innovation – Treatt
4. Best new startup – MENTA
5. Employee of the year – West Suffolk College
6. Customer service – Our Bury St Edmunds BID
7. Contribution to the community – Whitings Chartered Accountants LLP
8. Green/environment – arc Shopping Centre
9. Apprentice/trainee of the year – WS Training
10. Business of the year, small – Suffolk Chamber of Commerce
11. Business of the year, medium/large – Suffolk Chamber of Commerce
12. Business leader of the year – Greene & Greene Solicitors
13. Freelancer of the year – @inc