National Recognition for MyMiltonKeynes as Gold Winners at SME Awards

MyMiltonKeynes Business Improvement District (BID) has been recognised on the national stage once again, winning Gold in the Local Hero category at the SME National Business Awards 2025, held in London on Friday 7th November. This was a fantastic end to an award-winning year for the BID, which has already celebrated success at the national Town and City Industry Awards.

The SME National Business Awards highlight outstanding achievements from organisations across the UK, with MyMiltonKeynes qualifying for the national finals after winning Milton Keynes Business of the Year at the SME MK & Buckinghamshire Awards earlier this year. This national honour celebrates organisations making a real difference in their communities.

Since unveiling its Refreshed Business Plan (2024–27) earlier this year, developed directly in response to business feedback, MyMiltonKeynes has focused its resources on the priorities that matter most to local businesses and visitors. These include investing in a dedicated private security team to reduce antisocial behaviour and retail crime, undertaking public realm enhancements and launching the My-MK City Centre consumer brand, website and Gift Card to promote the city on behalf of its businesses.

And goodbye to Board Chair, Paul Davis

This latest award comes as the company bade farewell to Chair Paul Davis, who completed his final Board meeting and AGM on 20^th November. Paul had completed the maximum six-year term as Chair, and had served on the Board since the BID’s inception in 2017.

The MyMiltonKeynes Board

Paul played a pivotal role in supporting CEO Jill Farnsworth in reshaping the BID’s strategic priorities, enabling her and the team to deliver the Refreshed Business Plan. This national recognition is as much a reflection of his leadership, commitment, and belief in the BID’s vision as it is of the organisation’s collective success.

Paul Davis, outgoing Chairman of MyMiltonKeynes BID, said: “It has been a privilege to serve as Chair of MyMiltonKeynes and to see how far the organisation has come. This award is truly deserved and highlights the remarkable progress the organisation has made over the past year. I leave MyMiltonKeynes under the leadership of new chair, Diane Wehrle, who will bring vision, energy, and dedication to guide the BID into its next chapter”.

Jill Farnsworth, Chief Executive of MyMiltonKeynes BID, said: “This has been an amazing year for MyMiltonKeynes. We’re incredibly proud of everything we’ve achieved as a team, and this award is a wonderful recognition not only of our collective efforts but also of Paul’s tremendous contribution over the years. His leadership, guidance and unwavering support have helped us evolve and deliver real impact for the city centre. It’s fantastic to be putting Milton Keynes on the map for all the right reasons.”

The MyMiltonKeynes team