Awards night and the experience
On October 10th, we celebrated the Electra Business and Innovation Awards, where BidABLE was a finalist in the Professional and Business Services or Technology category. While we didn't take home the top prize, the journey has opened doors to new connections, customers, and exciting opportunities.
Reflections on Being a Finalist
Being recognised as a finalist, especially as a relatively new business, is a major achievement. This experience has truly highlighted the power of persistence, innovation, and the value of community.
The Finalist Journey: Pitching and New Connections
After submitting our application, it was time to prepare for the Entrants Event. Crafting my elevator pitch was key, and the feedback was incredible. I even heard, “I didn’t know people like you existed,” which led to collecting a few new business cards! Then came the exciting call—I was a finalist! This was a monumental moment for us because BidABLE consists of me and a handful of subcontractors.
Meeting the Judges and Embracing Opportunities
Despite battling a sickness that had me off-balance on the day of my meeting with the judges, I pushed through and made it happen. I delivered a refined pitch and received some fantastic advice that I have been implementing ever since.
New Experiences: From Radio to Recognition
One of the unexpected highlights was a radio interview with Nikki Carroll from Coast Access Radio—my first of its kind! Once I got past the initial nerves, I found myself enjoying the conversation and could have kept talking for much longer.
Networking Magic: Building the BidABLE Brand
This entire experience has reinforced the value of stepping outside your comfort zone and engaging with new people. Through the awards, I have grown BidABLE by trying new things, making new connections, and confidently discussing my business. As I often tell my customers—answer the questions directly in your proposals, avoid the fluff, and plan your presentations carefully—this time, I got to follow my own advice.
