North East Chamber of Commerce launches 2026 Chamber Business Awards
Date published:
The Chamber has launched the Chamber Business Awards 2026, inviting organisations from across the region to showcase their achievements and be recognised for their contribution to the North East economy.
The Business Awards 2026 continue to celebrate growth, innovation, leadership, sustainability and creativity, and shine a spotlight on the success of the North East’s business community.
Open exclusively to Chamber members, the awards recognise organisations of every size and sector, from start-ups and sole traders to established larger businesses.
Businesses that enter the awards will have the opportunity to receive both regional and national recognition, with winners of the national categories automatically becoming finalists at the British Chambers of Commerce Awards later in the year.
John McCabe, Chamber chief executive, said: “The Chamber Business Awards are always a standout moment in our calendar. They give us the chance to recognise the businesses and the people behind them who are helping shape the future of the North East.
“This is an opportunity for organisations to share their progress, their ideas and their impact, and to show the strength and diversity of our business community. I’d encourage all Chamber members to put themselves forward, and I wish all entrants the very best of luck.”
The Chamber Business Awards celebrate excellence across a broad spectrum of areas, including business growth, leadership, community impact, customer experience, international trade, digital and technology, green innovation and people and workforce development.
The 2026 programme builds on previous years by refining and strengthening existing categories to reflect the evolving priorities of the region’s economy.
Bernicia returns as headline sponsor for a sixth consecutive year, underlining its continued commitment to supporting businesses and communities in the North East.
John Johnston, chief executive, Bernicia Group, said:“The North East Chamber of Commerce Business Awards are now firmly established as the region’s premier showcase of business talent and achievement.
“It’s Bernicia’s pleasure to once again be headline sponsor. As a leading North East business and Chamber member, we recognise the hugely important role the Chamber plays in bringing organisations together and creating opportunities to collaborate and grow.
“I encourage every Chamber member to apply for these prestigious awards and look forward to the awards final in June at the Glasshouse International Centre for Music in Gateshead, where we will all be inspired once again by the quality of businesses and leaders who are the beating heart of our regional economy.”
Entries are free and must be submitted electronically via the Chamber’s awards platform by noon on 31 March 2026. Shortlists will be announced in May, with winners revealed at the awards final at The Glasshouse International Centre for Music on 18 June 2026.
Further details, category criteria and key dates can be found at necc.co.uk/awards