Award categories
Twelve public categories open to nomination, plus three honorary awards announced on the night.
Outstanding Contribution to Charity & Community
Recognises organisations (including not-for-profit and community interest companies) that have demonstrated exceptional dedication, innovation, and impact in supporting charitable or community causes and making a positive difference in their communities. The nominee will have a proven track record of philanthropic activities, measurable impact on beneficiaries, effective use of resources, sustainable strategies for long-term change, and a commitment to transparency and ethical practices.
Inspirational Culture Builder of the Year
A NEW award for 2026. Recognises an individual who is creating meaningful opportunities, championing underrepresented voices, and strengthening communities through their leadership and influence. Whether by opening doors, connecting people, creating platforms, or driving positive change, nominees should demonstrate a genuine commitment to advancing culture and empowering others. Their impact should extend beyond their own achievements, leaving a lasting legacy that inspires and elevates those around them.
Most Inspirational Entrepreneur of the Year
For an individual who has demonstrated exceptional innovation, leadership, and impact in the business world. This person will have a proven track record of business success (revenue growth, market expansion, or product/service innovation). A commitment to corporate social responsibility, mentoring others, ethical business practices, and positive contributions to society are key factors in evaluating candidates.
Outstanding Contribution to Equality & Diversity
Honours organisations that have demonstrated exceptional commitment and achievement in promoting and advancing equality, diversity, and inclusion. Criteria include a demonstrable track record of initiatives that foster a culture of EDI within their spheres, innovative strategies, impactful programmes, and measurable outcomes leading to tangible improvements in representation, access, and opportunities for marginalised or underrepresented groups.
Outstanding Contribution to Health & Wellbeing
Recognises individuals or organisations that have made significant and lasting contributions to improving the physical, mental, and emotional health and wellbeing of individuals and communities. Criteria include demonstrated impact through innovative health initiatives, programmes, or services promoting prevention, education, treatment, or support in areas such as healthcare access, mental health awareness, nutrition, fitness, or holistic wellbeing.
Outstanding Contribution to Sport
Recognises an individual or organisation that has made a significant and lasting impact on the world of sport, through performance, coaching, leadership, or community engagement. Nominees should exhibit leadership, resilience, innovation, and a commitment to using sport as a tool for personal growth, social change, or community cohesion. Their contributions should inspire others, break barriers, and leave a positive legacy within the sporting world.
Outstanding Contribution to Media & Entertainment
Recognises an individual who has made a significant impact in the world of media, including traditional and social media. Criteria include excellence, innovation, and influence in shaping narratives, informing audiences, or driving meaningful conversations through journalism, broadcasting, digital content, or social media. Nominees should produce high-quality, engaging, impactful content that educates, entertains, or inspires, while promoting ethical storytelling, diversity, and responsible media practices.
Outstanding Business of the Year
Recognises a company that has demonstrated exceptional performance, innovation, and impact in its industry. The company should have turned over a minimum of six figures and be able to evidence sustained financial success and growth with a strong commitment to customer satisfaction. The business should also be able to demonstrate how they help others who are less fortunate through their CSR.
Outstanding Contribution to Leadership
Recognises an individual who has demonstrated exceptional leadership qualities, inspiring others and driving positive change. This person will have a proven track record of achieving significant results or milestones, and should use their leadership profile to support others.
Inspirational Young Leader of the Year
Recognises an exceptional individual aged 16 to 30 who is making a significant impact through their leadership, innovation, or achievements. Whether as a student, entrepreneur, professional, or community leader, nominees should demonstrate vision, resilience, and a commitment to creating positive change, inspiring others through their actions, influence, and dedication to making a meaningful difference.
Outstanding Contribution to Education
A NEW award for 2026. Recognises an individual, organisation, or initiative that has made an exceptional impact through education, learning, and personal development. This award celebrates those who inspire others through innovative approaches to teaching, mentoring, skills development, or creating opportunities that empower people of all ages to learn, grow, and reach their full potential.
Outstanding Contribution to Social Change
Recognises individuals that have made significant and meaningful contributions towards creating positive social change and addressing pressing societal issues. Criteria include a demonstrated commitment to advocating for justice, equality, human rights, environmental sustainability, or other critical social causes.
Honorary awards
Announced on the night. No public nominations.
Icon Honorary Award
An honorary award announced on the night. No public nominations.
Inspirational Honorary Award
An honorary award announced on the night. No public nominations.
Lifetime Achievement Honorary Award
An honorary award announced on the night. No public nominations.
Nominate someone. Be there on the night.
Nominations open now · Saturday 13 February 2027, The Eastside Rooms, Birmingham. Early Bird tickets from £110.