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2025 nominations are now closed

The Top 50 Small Business Leaders report recognises resilient small-business owners who have excelled in innovation, overcame challenges, embraced sustainability and contributed to their local communities.

Discover who made the list and see who will be highlighted for their outstanding achievements.

Every applicant receives a score for each of these criteria based on the information they provide in their application. In addition, every applicant is scored by three judges.

Presented by

Nominations open
12 May 2025

Nominations close
6 June 2025

Submissions open
12 Jun 2025

Submissions close
25 Jun 2025

Finalists notified
17 Jul 2025

Report published
Oct 2025

Our judges

Frances Pratt

Frances Pratt

Founder and Director - Metisan

Details about team member

Suzanne Murphy

Suzanne Murphy

Chief Executive Officer - Exhale Moments
Suzanne Murphy is a results-focused brand strategist and leadership coach with over 25 years of experience across Australia, the U.S., and Europe. Formerly Chief Marketing Officer of a $450 million global manufacturing and retail business, she now leads Exhale Moments, a consultancy dedicated to helping purpose-led leaders drive growth through brand clarity, cultural alignment, and strategic leadership.

Suzanne is also the Managing Director of the Women’s Spirit Project, leading its national expansion to support women overcoming adversity through connection, movement, wellbeing, and leadership programs. As Principal of The Executive Roundtable Victoria, she facilitates a high-performing network of CEOs and business owners committed to shared growth and strategic excellence.

She is a trusted coach to female CEOs and senior leaders, known for combining commercial acumen with a deep passion for people and purpose.
Katie Gallagher

Katie Gallagher

Founder - Katie Gallagher PR and Media

Details about team member

Nikhil Daftary

Nikhil Daftary

Founder and Managing Director - Moments

Details about team member

Bec Alison

Bec Alison

Founder - Bec Alison Marketing

Details about team member

Mia Lockett

Mia Lockett

Editor, Inside Small Business

Past reports