‘The recognition has opened doors to new partnerships,’ business award winner says as 2026 event is confirmed
By Beverly Rademacher
Copyright expressandstar
A revamped set of 11 new award categories will be up for grabs at the ICC in Birmingham on Thursday May 14 2026.
Among them is the Business Ambassador Award, voted for by chamber members in recognition of an individual or organisation who makes a difference to the regional business community.
Early bird ticket prices for the event have also been announced – with a table of 10 costing £999 (plus VAT). Individual tickets are priced at £170 (plus VAT).
Businesses will be in with a chance of winning 11 sector awards, as well as the overall Greater Birmingham Business of the Year.
Marcella Meehan, events manager at Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce, said: “We are so excited to launch the GBCC Awards 2026. It comes round so quickly!
“From one-man bands to multinational firms, it is amazing to bring the business community together in this spectacular celebration. We really can’t wait!”
This year’s award categories are:
Non-Profit Champion 2026Community Builder 2026Workplace Champion 2026 – sponsored by University College BirminghamPioneer 2026 – sponsored by Sandwell College Sustainability Trailblazer 2026Digital Revolutionary 2026 – sponsored by Gateley PLCBreakthrough Business 2026 – sponsored by runyourfleet Business without Borders 2026 – sponsored by Gowling WLGCustomer Commitment 2026 – sponsored by Translift BendiInfluencer Award 2026Business Ambassador 2026 – sponsored by Turkish Airlines
The Greater Birmingham Business of the Year – which will be picked from the category winners – is sponsored by Crowe LLP.
Last year’s overall Business of the Year was The Listening Centre, which also won the award for Excellence in Customer Service category.
Sharon McCormick, owner and managing director of The Listening Centre, said: “Winning the awards has given our entire team tremendous pride and confidence, reinforcing that our trauma-informed approach to workplace wellbeing truly makes a difference.
“The recognition has opened doors to new partnerships and elevated conversations about the importance of genuine mental health support in the workplace.
“Be authentic in your application – let your passion for what you do shine through, and don’t be afraid to highlight what makes your approach unique.
“The judges appreciate genuine insight into your business impact rather than generic corporate speak.”
Applications for the category awards must be submitted through the awards application portal on the chamber website. Applications close on Sunday December 12.
