Xero Awards South Africa 2025: Categories, criteria, questions and guidelines
Find what you need to know as you draft your entry before submitting it. Entries close at 23:55 (SAST) on 15 June 2025.
South African Accountants and Bookkeepers Awards:
For South Africa's standout accounting practice transforming client businesses through Xero and cloud technology.
For newer Xero partners making significant impact.
For practices that have revolutionised their entire practice through bold digital innovation.
For partners making a difference beyond the balance sheet through social, economic, environmental, or cultural initiatives.
Exclusively for Xero Practice Champions who drive cloud adoption from within their practices.
For the go-to Xero experts everyone relies on (internally judged by Xero, not available for nomination).
South African App Partners Awards:
For teams that connect all the dots, delivering exceptional value through expert advice, seamless implementation, and ongoing support.
For locally-developed apps that transform how businesses use Xero, solving real problems for South African businesses.
*Terms and conditions apply. Read terms.
Partner of the year
Ready to be recognised as South Africa's standout accounting practice? This award celebrates practices that are truly transforming their clients' businesses through smart use of Xero and cloud technology. We're looking for partners who've built meaningful client relationships, embraced the full potential of the Xero ecosystem, and are leading the charge in digital accounting innovation.
Assessment criteria
Entries will be assessed using the following criteria:
- Business Vision
- Xero Product Implementation
- Ecosystem Adoption
- Knowledge Development
- Innovation Impact
Eligibility requirements
- Your practice is based in South Africa
- You've been a Xero partner since December 2023 or earlier
- Your achievements are from January 2024 onwards
- Your practice is submitting its own nomination
- Previous winners and nominees are welcome to enter again—we love seeing your continued growth.
Questions
1. Business Vision
What drives your partner's purpose and shapes its future?
Hint: Tell us about your vision and how it shapes your day-to-day operations, client relationships, and digital strategy. Share specific examples of how your vision comes to life in your practice.
2. Xero Product Implementation
How do you make the most of Xero's suite of products to transform your practice?
Hint: Show us how you use Xero Tax, Xero Practice Manager, IPMT, HQ, Projects, Expenses, HubDoc, Analytics, or online invoicing solutions. Focus on how these tools work together to create a seamless experience.
3. Ecosystem Adoption
How have you integrated Xero's app ecosystem to enhance your practice and client service?
Hint: Walk us through your approach to selecting, implementing, and using apps for both internal efficiency and client success. Share specific examples of app integration that made a real difference.
4. Knowledge Development
How do you build and share Xero expertise?
Hint: Tell us about your approach to certifications, team training, event participation, and client education. Share specific examples of how knowledge sharing has benefited your team and clients
5. Innovation Impact
What measurable results has your innovation delivered?
Hint: Share specific outcomes for your practice and clients. Include quantifiable metrics where possible, such as time saved, increased revenue, or improved client satisfaction.
Emerging practice of the year
New to Xero but making waves already? This award shines a spotlight on accounting and bookkeeping practices who've hit the ground running with Xero. Share how you've quickly adopted our platform, brought innovation to your clients, and achieved remarkable results in your first year. Show us how you're building something special right from day one.
Assessment criteria
Entries will be assessed using the following criteria:
- Business Vision
- Xero Product Implementation
- Ecosystem Adoption
- Innovation Journey
- Innovation Impact
Eligibility requirements
- Your practice is based in South Africa
- You're currently a Xero partner
- Your practice joined the Xero partner programme on or after 1 January 2024
- Your submission focuses on achievements since becoming a Xero partner
- Previous nominees who still meet the eligibility criteria are welcome to enter again.
Questions
1. Business Vision
What drives your partner's purpose and shapes its future?
Hint: Tell us about your vision and how it shapes your day-to-day operations, client relationships, and digital strategy. Share specific examples of how your vision comes to life in your practice.
2. Xero Product Implementation
How do you make the most of Xero's suite of products to transform your practice?
Hint: Show us how you use Xero Tax, Xero Practice Manager, IPMT, HQ, Projects, Expenses, HubDoc, Analytics, or online invoicing solutions. Focus on how these tools work together to create a seamless experience.
3. Ecosystem Adoption
How have you integrated Xero's app ecosystem to enhance your practice and client service?
Hint: Walk us through your approach to selecting, implementing, and using apps for both internal efficiency and client success. Share specific examples of app integration that made a real difference.
4. Innovation Journey
Every great solution has a story. What sparked your initial idea, and how has your approach evolved as you've learned what your users really need?
Hint: Share the 'aha moment' that started your journey, how you've responded to changing market needs, and the driving forces behind your ongoing development. We'd love to hear about key milestones and lessons learned along the way.
5. Innovation Impact
What measurable results has your innovation delivered?
Hint: Share specific outcomes for your practice and clients. Include quantifiable metrics where possible, such as time saved, increased revenue, or improved client satisfaction.
Digital Practice Champion
Have you revolutionised your entire practice through technology? This award recognises practices that have transformed how they work through bold digital innovation. We want to see how you've reimagined your operations, culture, and client services using cutting-edge solutions. Tell us how your tech-forward approach has created measurable improvements across your entire practice.
Assessment criteria
Entries will be assessed using the following criteria:
- Innovation Journey
- Innovation Process
- Innovation Impact
- Ecosystem Adoption
- Xero Product Implementation
Eligibility requirements
- Your practice is based in South Africa
- You're currently a Xero partner
- Your submission includes practice-wide achievements from March 2024 - March 2025
- Previous winners and nominees are welcome to enter again with fresh innovations.
Questions
1. Innovation Journey
Every great solution has a story. What sparked your initial idea, and how has your approach evolved as you've learned what your users really need?
Hint: Share the 'aha moment' that started your journey, how you've responded to changing market needs, and the driving forces behind your ongoing development. We'd love to hear about key milestones and lessons learned along the way.
2. Innovation Process
How did you implement your innovation?
Hint: Walk us through your implementation strategy and how you overcame challenges. Share your approach to change management and how you brought your team along on the journey.
3. Innovation Impact
What measurable results has your innovation delivered?
Hint: Share specific outcomes for your practice and clients. Include quantifiable metrics where possible, such as time saved, increased revenue, or improved client satisfaction.
4. Ecosystem Adoption
How have you integrated Xero's app ecosystem to enhance your practice and client service?
Hint: Walk us through your approach to selecting, implementing, and using apps for both internal efficiency and client success. Share specific examples of app integration that made a real difference.
5. Xero Product Implementation
How do you make the most of Xero's suite of products to transform your practice?
Hint: Show us how you use Xero Tax, Xero Practice Manager, IPMT, HQ, Projects, Expenses, HubDoc, Analytics, or online invoicing solutions. Focus on how these tools work together to create a seamless experience.
Community Impact *NEW*
Making a difference beyond the balance sheet? This award celebrates partners who deliver excellent accounting services while creating positive change in their communities. Tell us how you've tackled meaningful social, economic, environmental, or cultural challenges. Share your story of community impact and how you're making South Africa better one initiative at a time.
Assessment criteria
Entries will be assessed using the following criteria:
- Community Initiative
- Community Impact
- Business Vision
- Innovation Process
- Knowledge Development
Eligibility requirements
- Your practice is based in South Africa
- You're currently a Xero partner
- Your submission includes project results from March 2024 - March 2025
- Both completed and ongoing initiatives are eligible
- Open to practices of all sizes and partner tiers—because meaningful impact can come from anywhere.
Questions
1. Community Initiative
What community cause did you choose to support and how?
Hint: Tell us about your chosen initiative and implementation approach. Share why this cause matters to your team and how you've approached making a difference.
2. Community Impact
What measurable difference has your community work made?
Hint: Include specific outcomes and improvements achieved. Share stories that illustrate the human impact of your work alongside any quantifiable results.
3. Business Vision
What drives your partner's purpose and shapes its future?
Hint: Tell us about your vision and how it shapes your day-to-day operations, client relationships, and digital strategy. Share specific examples of how your vision comes to life in your practice.
4. Innovation Process
How did you implement your innovation?
Hint: Walk us through your implementation strategy and how you overcame challenges. Share your approach to change management and how you brought your team along on the journey.
5. Knowledge Development
How do you build and share Xero expertise?
Hint: Tell us about your approach to certifications, team training, event participation, and client education. Share specific examples of how knowledge sharing has benefited your team and clients.
Rising Star *NEW*
Calling all Xero Practice Champions. This award spotlights the driving forces behind cloud adoption in your practice. We're looking for those exceptional team members who champion digital transformation from within, showing initiative, enthusiasm, and delivering real results. Whether you're helping colleagues embrace new technology or leading innovative client solutions, show us how you're making waves in your practice's cloud journey.
Assessment criteria
Entries will be assessed using the following criteria:
- Personal Initiative
- Leadership Impact
- Knowledge Development
- Innovation Journey
- Innovation Impact
Eligibility requirements
- You work for an accounting or bookkeeping practice based in South Africa
- Your practice is currently a Xero partner
- You are a Xero Practice Champion
- You're in a team member role (not a practice owner or managing partner)
- Your submission covers achievements from March 2024 - March 2025
- Nominations can come from colleagues or practice leaders
- This award recognises the individual champions who drive change from within.
Questions
1. Personal Initiative
How have you driven cloud adoption in your practice?
Hint: Share specific examples of how you've championed digital transformation. Tell us about the initiatives you've led and how you've inspired others to embrace change.
2. Leadership Impact
How have you influenced and supported your colleagues?
Hint: Share examples of how you've helped others embrace digital solutions. Tell us about your approach to mentoring, knowledge sharing, and team development.
3. Knowledge Development
How do you build and share Xero expertise?
Hint: Tell us about your approach to certifications, team training, event participation, and client education. Share specific examples of how knowledge sharing has benefited your team and clients.
4. Innovation Journey
Every great solution has a story. What sparked your initial idea, and how has your approach evolved as you've learned what your users really need?
Hint: Share the 'aha moment' that started your journey, how you've responded to changing market needs, and the driving forces behind your ongoing development. We'd love to hear about key milestones and lessons learned along the way.
5. Innovation Impact
What measurable results has your innovation delivered?
Hint: Share specific outcomes for your practice and clients. Include quantifiable metrics where possible, such as time saved, increased revenue, or improved client satisfaction.
Most Valued Professional
Are you the go-to Xero expert everyone relies on? This award celebrates individuals who've demonstrated exceptional Xero knowledge, leadership, and community contribution. We're looking for professionals who consistently share their expertise, help others succeed with Xero, and elevate the entire accounting community through their dedication and passion.
This award is not available for nomination and is internally judged within Xero.
App integrator of the year
Are you the team that connects all the dots? This award recognises a trusted Xero app integrator who delivers exceptional value to accounting practices and their clients. Show us how you've become a leader in your industry by offering expert advice, seamless implementation, and ongoing support for specific app needs. We want to see how you're helping practices create powerful, connected solutions.
Assessment criteria
Entries will be assessed using the following criteria:
- Client Success
- Technical Excellence
- Knowledge Sharing
- Innovation Journey
- Business Impact
Eligibility requirements
- Your business is based in South Africa
- Your submission covers achievements from March 2024 - March 2025
- You have a track record of successful Xero integrations
- This award celebrates the experts who help our partners build the perfect app ecosystem.
Questions
1. Client Success
Tell us how you're making a real difference for your South African Xero users. What's your secret to keeping them happy and successful?
Hint: We'd love to hear about your approach to understanding what clients really need, how you support them every step of the way, and your special touches that ensure they're delighted with your solution. Share a story or two about real problems you've solved for South African businesses.
2. Technical Excellence
We're curious about the technical magic behind your Xero integration. How do you keep things running smoothly and stay ahead of the curve?
Hint: Share your approach to building and maintaining a rock-solid integration. Tell us about your quality checks, how you stay current with Xero's platform changes, and any technical achievements from the past year that make your solution special.
3. Knowledge Sharing
Sharing knowledge is powerful. How are you helping the Xero community learn and grow with your expertise?
Hint: Tell us about the ways you're empowering users through training, resources, or community initiatives. We'd love to hear examples of how you've helped turn Xero novices into confident experts, and how you're contributing to the broader knowledge base.
4. Innovation Journey
Every great solution has a story. What sparked your initial idea, and how has your approach evolved as you've learned what your users really need?
Hint: Share the 'aha moment' that started your journey, how you've responded to changing market needs, and the driving forces behind your ongoing development. We'd love to hear about key milestones and lessons learned along the way.
5. Business Impact
Let's talk about the real-world difference you're making. What tangible results are your users celebrating thanks to your solution?
Hint: Share specific metrics and stories that showcase your solution's value - like time saved, errors reduced, or business growth achieved. Real-world examples that demonstrate how you've helped South African businesses thrive will really bring your impact to life.
South African app of the year
Has your South African-built app transformed how businesses use Xero? This award recognises locally-developed apps that demonstrate exceptional growth, provide outstanding user experiences, and show commitment to the Xero ecosystem. Tell us how your app solves real problems for South African businesses and how you've built a world-class engagement program around it.
Assessment criteria
Entries will be assessed using the following criteria:
- Client Success
- Technical Excellence
- Local Market Relevance
- Ecosystem Contribution
- Business Impact
Eligibility requirements
- Your business is based in South Africa
- Your app is live in Xero's marketplace and launched on or before 1 October 2024
- Your app meets Xero's App partner programme requirements (including 'Try Xero' button with XTID code)
- Your app has completed OAuth2 migration or has a confirmed migration date
- Your submission covers achievements from March 2024 - March 2025
- This award celebrates South African innovation in the Xero app ecosystem.
Questions
1. Client Success
Tell us how you're making a real difference for your South African Xero users. What's your secret to keeping them happy and successful?
Hint: We'd love to hear about your approach to understanding what clients really need, how you support them every step of the way, and your special touches that ensure they're delighted with your solution. Share a story or two about real problems you've solved for South African businesses.
2. Technical Excellence
We're curious about the technical magic behind your Xero integration. How do you keep things running smoothly and stay ahead of the curve?
Hint: Share your approach to building and maintaining a rock-solid integration. Tell us about your quality checks, how you stay current with Xero's platform changes, and any technical achievements from the past year that make your solution special.
3. Local Market Relevance
South African businesses have unique needs. How have you adapted your solution to address these local challenges?
Hint: We're interested in the special touches you've added for South African businesses - whether it's compliance features, adaptations for local business practices, or addressing market-specific pain points. Tell us how you've made your solution feel like it was built specifically for SA.
4. Ecosystem Contribution
We're all part of something bigger together. How are you helping to strengthen and grow the Xero ecosystem in South Africa?
Hint: Tell us how your solution complements and enhances the Xero experience, your collaborative approach with other Xero partners, and how you're helping to spread the word about the benefits of the platform. We're interested in how you're helping the whole ecosystem thrive.
5. Business Impact
Let's talk about the real-world difference you're making. What tangible results are your users celebrating thanks to your solution?
Hint: Share specific metrics and stories that showcase your solution's value - like time saved, errors reduced, or business growth achieved. Real-world examples that demonstrate how you've helped South African businesses thrive will really bring your impact to life.