E.ON Next is bringing the energy to the 2027 Multicultural INSPIRE Awards, strengthening its partnership with the national awards programme by returning as its official Headline Sponsor.

The energy provider supported the inaugural Multicultural INSPIRE Awards as an Emerald Sponsor and will significantly increase its commitment for 2027, taking centre stage as Headline Sponsor when the awards return on Saturday 13 February 2027 at The Eastside Rooms in Birmingham.

The Multicultural INSPIRE Awards celebrate some of the UK's most inspirational people and organisations, recognising those whose achievements, journeys and contributions are making a positive difference across business, communities and wider society.

Following a hugely successful inaugural ceremony, which attracted more than 700 nominations, 30,000 public votes and over 600 guests, E.ON Next's decision to return with an increased level of support marks an exciting next chapter in the relationship between the two organisations.

"The best ideas often come from bringing together different experiences and perspectives, and that's something we see every day at E.ON Next.

"Recognition has the power to inspire others, and that's what makes the INSPIRE Awards so important. They celebrate people whose achievements are making a positive difference in their communities and show others what's possible. Having seen the impact of the inaugural awards, we're delighted to be returning as Headline Sponsor for 2027 and helping celebrate another incredible group of nominees.

"I'm looking forward to hearing the stories behind this year's nominations and recognising the positive contribution being made in communities across the UK."

Chris Shead · Director of Customer Operations, E.ON Next

The 2027 awards will recognise inspirational individuals and organisations across a broad range of sectors and areas of impact, including business, entrepreneurship, education, leadership, charity and community, equality and diversity, health and wellbeing, sport, media and entertainment, music, culture building and social change.

Three honorary awards will also be presented on the night, recognising individuals whose achievements and contributions have created an exceptional and lasting impact.

"There is something particularly special about a sponsor experiencing what we created in year one and then choosing to come back with an even greater commitment.

"E.ON Next supported our inaugural awards as an Emerald Sponsor, so to now welcome them as our Headline Sponsor feels like a huge vote of confidence in what INSPIRE stands for and what we are building.

"There is a genuine alignment between our organisations around people, representation and recognising those making a difference. The best partnerships go far beyond a logo on an event, and I really believe this is the beginning of something special between INSPIRE and E.ON Next. I couldn't be more excited about what we can build together."

Dr Tru Powell · Founder & Chief of Vibes, Multicultural INSPIRE Awards

The inaugural Multicultural INSPIRE Awards saw Dame Denise Lewis, Moira Stuart CBE, Angie Le Mar and Dr Beverly Lindsay OBE OD DL receive honorary recognition, alongside winners from across the UK.

The 2027 ceremony will bring together nominees, finalists, business leaders, community champions, creatives and special guests for an evening of inspirational stories, awards and live entertainment, followed by the official after-party.

Nominations for the 2027 Multicultural INSPIRE Awards are open now and close on Monday 5 October 2026.

Members of the public can nominate themselves, a colleague, friend, business or organisation, or somebody whose achievements, journey or impact deserves national recognition.

For nominations, full category criteria and further information, start a nomination or explore the award categories.