From GBEA Winner to Royal Recognition: Dr.PAWPAW Secures King’s Award for Enterprise

When we say that winning a Great British Entrepreneur Award can change your life, we mean it. Just ask Johnny and Pauline Paterson, co-founders of Dr.PAWPAW and proud recipients of the 2020 Great British Entrepreneur of the Year national title.

Now, just a few years on, Dr.PAWPAW has received one of the highest honours in UK business: a King’s Award for Enterprise, specifically for International Trade.

This isn’t just a big moment for Johnny and the Dr.PAWPAW team, it’s a huge moment for the entire Great British Entrepreneur Awards community.

As Johnny puts it, “If you want to do something truly life changing, then winning a Great British Entrepreneur of the Year award is just that.”

Since taking home the top prize in 2020, Johnny has seen first-hand the power of GBEA recognition. The win opened doors to venture capital and private equity interest, ultimately leading to Dr.PAWPAW’s first investment round fuel that’s now driving even greater growth on a global scale.

“I think it came down to winning that award that night,” Johnny says. “We got so much interest from investors who wanted to be part of our journey.”

It’s this kind of trajectory, from national winner to international success that shows the real-world impact of championing entrepreneurship. The King’s Award isn’t just a celebration of export performance; it shows what’s possible when a brilliant product meets the right platform and support.

Dr.PAWPAW’s journey is a powerful reminder that when we celebrate entrepreneurs, we help power their next chapter. 

We couldn’t be prouder to see a member of our Great British Entrepreneur Awards family step onto such a prestigious stage.

Congratulations to Johnny, Pauline, and the entire Dr.PAWPAW team.

And if you haven’t entered GBEA yet, take Johnny’s advice:
“Something truly life changing could happen to you if you win these awards.”

Think you’ve got what it takes? Apply now for the 2025 Great British Entrepreneur Awards. Apply here.

Know someone building something brilliant? Nominate them for the recognition they deserve. Nominate here.