TBE shortlisted for Impact Award as one of UK’s Best SMEs
The Business Exchange (TBE) South West is up for a national award at the Best SME Awards 2026.
Shortlisted in the Best Impact category, TBE has been recognised for demonstrating how an independent media business can achieve sector-leading impact through leadership, innovation and a strong sense of purpose.
Founded by Anita Jaynes in 2013, TBE has grown into the only dedicated B2B print and digital media platform serving Swindon & Wiltshire and Bath & Somerset. At a time when regional print is shrinking and B2B publishing remains male-dominated, TBE has defied industry decline and built a thriving multi-platform ecosystem with a magazine read by 30,000 people, two busy websites, a newsletter reaching more than 10,000 subscribers, an active social audience, a podcast and a full events programme supported by the TBE VIP Membership.
The inaugural Best SME Awards take place on Friday 24th April. These national awards will recognise and reward the UK’s innovative, enterprising, high-performing and client-focused businesses and their employees from across the UK.
The 2026 Best SME Award entry emphasises Anita’s leadership as the driving force behind the growth of TBE. It reflects on the resilience she showed during the pandemic when she continued to support the business community daily at a time of intense pressure for media and events businesses.
It also highlights the development of TBE’s events and expos, including the South West Charity Conference & Expo, which has grown into a nationally recognised occasion.
Finally, the entry focuses on the measurable impact TBE has had across the region. It sets out how the platform has supported thousands of SMEs, start-ups and charities, delivered free editorial exposure, driven new clients and collaborations and connected more than 1,500 delegates annually through its events.
The Business Exchange Founder Anita Jaynes said, “The Business Exchange is absolutely buzzing to be named as one of the best SMEs in the country, particularly in the impact category.
“Everything we do is about impact – meaningful connections that translate into real opportunities; sharing successes and achievements to elevate the entire region’s business network; encouraging ethical and responsible business practices to support our communities.
“We keep our business community connected in the right ways, and we are so pleased to be recognised for this at a national level. The team will have our fingers firmly crossed on Awards night.
“Finally, I would like to thank all of our advertisers and VIPs, past and present, for their support. TBE is a community and we’re proud to work with, and fly the flag for, you all.”
