Chesterfield business owner named finalist at UK Small Business Awards 2026
Chesterfield entrepreneur who has helped more than 35 businesses, charities and community organisations strengthen their digital presence has been named a finalist at the UK Small Business Awards 2026.
Jessica Smith, founder of Justjessvirtual, has been shortlisted in the Female Entrepreneur of the Year category, recognising the growth of her business and its impact in supporting organisations to increase their online visibility.
Founded during the Covid-19 pandemic, Justjessvirtual provides social media management, digital marketing, content creation and communications support to businesses and organisations across Chesterfield and beyond. Since launching, the business has worked with clients across sectors including health and wellbeing, retail, professional services, charities, community organisations, trades and events.
Jessica established the business after relocating to Chesterfield, where she built a new life and career before deciding to launch her own business. Today, much of her work comes through relationships built within the town’s business community.
Jessica said:
“Chesterfield gave me a fresh start and has become the place where I’ve been able to build both my business and my family life. The local business community has been incredibly supportive, and so much of my work has come through local relationships and referrals.
“When I started Justjessvirtual, I wanted to help businesses and organisations tell their stories more effectively online. Seeing the difference that digital visibility can make for small businesses, charities and community groups has been incredibly rewarding.”
One of Jessica’s proudest achievements has been supporting the African Caribbean Community Association in Chesterfield with its digital communications, website and funding communications. The work helped strengthen the charity’s online presence and supported successful funding bids, enabling the organisation to continue delivering services for the local community.
Jessica has also supported major community events, helped businesses improve their digital marketing strategies and created content that has reached audiences of more than one million people online.
Looking ahead, Jessica hopes to continue growing the business while supporting even more organisations across Chesterfield to build confidence in digital marketing and social media.
Jessica added:
“My ambition is to continue helping businesses, charities and community organisations feel more confident online. Growth isn’t just about taking on more clients; it’s about creating more impact, supporting more local stories and helping organisations understand the value of being visible.
“Being recognised as a finalist at the UK Small Business Awards is a huge honour. I’m proud to be representing Chesterfield on a national stage and hope it highlights the fantastic businesses and entrepreneurs we have here.”
The UK Small Business Awards celebrate entrepreneurs and organisations making a significant contribution to their industries and communities across the UK, recognising innovation, resilience and business excellence.
To discover support available to start, grow and promote a business in Chesterfield, visit: www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/
