Of course, the most obvious form of innovation is the launch of a brand new product that doesn't already exist out there in the marketplace. In this case, an award entry should emphasise that this is a 'first mover' and describe how the product is innovative. What was the need for the product and how does it fulfil that need?
Similarly, you may have introduced an innovative service not previously offered by your competitors. In what way is this an industry first? Does it solve a problem or make the customer's life easier? Using 'before and after' data here will show how the service has brought a range of improvements and benefits to the business and its customers.
Sometimes it's not about delivering an industry first, it can simply be enough to have introduced something new into your own business for the first time. For example, has a new tech system or piece of software been implemented to revolutionise the way you do things within the business?
Or it may be more about taking an 'innovative approach' to delivering something. Were there challenges that required you to think creatively in order to overcome them?
If you want to discuss the innovative aspects of your business, please do not hesitate to get in touch.