SME 

On 6th March 2025, the Northern PoWEr Women Awards will once again celebrate the individuals and organisations driving meaningful change across the North. As one of the most prestigious events championing gender equality, innovation, and social impact, the awards highlight those making a real difference in their industries and communities. This year, we celebrate the organisations nominated for the SME Award, recognising businesses that are leading the way in accelerating gender equality and fostering truly inclusive workplaces. These organisations implement forward-thinking strategies in recruitment, development, and retention, ensuring diversity is not just encouraged but embedded in their culture. Through their dedication, they create environments where all individuals can thrive and reach their full potential. Square One was last year’s winner, recognised for its dynamic and inclusive approach to running a law firm, keeping authenticity at the forefront of its operations.  

Here’s a rundown of the 2025 Finalists: 

The Rugby Football League 

The Rugby Football League (RFL) is leading the way in making rugby league one of the most inclusive sports. With a full playing pyramid, including men’s, women’s, wheelchair, Physical Disability, and Learning Disability formats, there are few barriers to participation. The recent World Cup set a new benchmark for diversity, with men’s, women’s, and wheelchair tournaments held simultaneously, all players paid equally. This has driven significant growth, with women’s and girls’ participation up 250% and wheelchair rugby league increasing by 165%. Domestically, Women’s and Wheelchair Super Leagues continue to expand opportunities. Governance reflects this commitment, with a Board that is 60% female and a diversity programme helping clubs build more representative leadership. The RFL also ensures talent pathways are open to all, regardless of gender, ethnicity, or background, with over half of clubs based in the UK’s most deprived areas. By tackling inequalities and fostering opportunities, the RFL is proving that rugby league is a sport where everyone belongs. 

Cygnet Law Solicitors 

Cygnet Law is a progressive North East law firm specialising in family and property law while actively championing gender equality. With over 80 staff, most of whom are women, the firm’s leadership team is 80% female, demonstrating a commitment to breaking barriers in a traditionally male-dominated industry. Investing in professional development, Cygnet Law supports 15 staff members through apprenticeships, with five women qualifying as solicitors in the past year. Recruitment and development strategies are designed to challenge systemic barriers, ensuring fair and accessible opportunities for all. Beyond its internal workforce, Cygnet Law engages with schools, industry panels, and the wider legal sector to advocate for gender equality. Through mentorship, training, and outreach initiatives, the firm nurtures future legal talent and creates leadership pathways. Committed to fostering an inclusive and supportive workplace, Cygnet Law continues to drive positive change in the legal profession. 

Sunderland Software City 

Sunderland Software City (SSC) is committed to promoting gender equality and inclusivity within its organisation and the wider tech sector. With a 60% female workforce, SSC leads by example, implementing inclusive recruitment practices and fostering a diverse workplace. The organisation actively supports female founders through mentoring, networking, and skills development, while also engaging with schools to encourage young women to explore careers in technology. By hosting events and discussions that amplify underrepresented voices, SSC creates an environment where inclusivity is a daily practice. Through these efforts, SSC continues to pave the way for a more diverse and equitable tech industry. 

Gallaway Construction 

Gallaway Construction, a Manchester-based civil engineering firm, is dedicated to fostering gender equality and inclusivity within the industry. Through its Women in Construction programme, the company actively addresses gender imbalance by recruiting, mentoring, and supporting women in roles across all levels, from site work to project management. Led by Renne Preston, a champion of workplace inclusivity, Gallaway has implemented policies promoting work-life balance and career development. Beyond gender diversity, the company also supports broader social initiatives, such as its Prison Leaver Programme, reflecting its commitment to wider societal change. Gallaway’s progressive approach positions it as a leader in diversity within the construction sector. 

Connectus Business Solutions 

Connectus Business Solutions has established itself as a leading SME in the cybersecurity sector, driven by innovation, inclusivity, and strategic growth. The company actively fosters diversity through inclusive recruitment practices, mentorship programmes, and flexible policies that support career development for women and underrepresented groups. Under the leadership of Roy Shelton, Connectus has expanded its reach, recently acquiring IT For Growth to enhance its services across the North and Midlands. With a strong commitment to gender equality and workplace inclusivity, Connectus continues to drive meaningful change in the tech industry, setting a benchmark for diversity and innovation within the sector. 

Vital Heating Solutions 

Vital Heating Solutions is dedicated to fostering gender equality and inclusivity in the workplace through progressive recruitment, development, and retention strategies. By leveraging social media outreach, particularly on Instagram, the company actively encourages women to explore opportunities in engineering, challenging traditional stereotypes. Job descriptions are crafted with input from the entire team to ensure a person-centred and gender-neutral approach. Support for women extends beyond recruitment, with policies in place to assist employees through maternity leave and menopause, creating a truly inclusive environment. Flexibility is a key aspect of retention, offering adaptable working arrangements and opportunities for career progression, including apprenticeships and further education. By prioritising diversity and continuous development, Vital Heating Solutions remains committed to creating a workplace where all individuals, regardless of gender or background, can thrive. 

Savera UK 

Savera UK is dedicated to ending honour-based abuse and harmful practices through direct support, advocacy, education, and awareness-raising. Their one-to-one intervention service has helped thousands escape abusive situations, providing safeguarding, advocacy, and welfare support to aid survivors in rebuilding their lives. Beyond individual assistance, Savera UK works to challenge societal attitudes and influence policies, ensuring long-term change. Their awareness campaigns, educational programmes, and public demonstrations highlight the importance of recognising and addressing these hidden forms of abuse. The organisation’s latest impact report shows a significant increase in referrals, with tangible improvements in clients’ safety, financial stability, and emotional well-being. Through training, consultancy, and youth engagement, Savera UK continues to break the silence surrounding honour-based abuse, striving for a future of gender equality and human rights for all.