The ClimbAwards return with a new level of energy, ambition and national recognition. This is where the most inspiring founders, teams and organisations step into the spotlight. From revolutionary innovators to community champions, this year’s categories celebrate the people rewriting the future of the UK’s entrepreneurial landscape.
Nominations are now open, marking the start of an exciting journey that brings together exceptional talent across the country. The ClimbAwards are designed for people who move with intent. People who build. People who create opportunity. People who push boundaries.
The ClimbAwards 2026 include 10 categories recognising growth, innovation and impact across UK business. If you’ve delivered something worth recognising this year, nominate yourself. If someone else deserves the spotlight, tag them and nominate them. Self‑nominations are welcome.
ClimbAwards 2026 Categories
The Jenny Garrett Global - Women in Business Award
This award celebrates a woman or group of women who are driving innovation, growth, and positive change in business. The recipient(s) will demonstrate exceptional leadership, entrepreneurial spirit, and influence in their field, inspiring others and breaking down barriers for future generations.
Inclusion Champion Award
This award recognises an individual, business, or organisation leading the way in creating inclusive environments. Nominees should demonstrate a strong commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion, embedding these values into their culture, practices, and impact on the wider community.
Changemaker Award - Social Impact
This award honours a company or individual making a measurable difference in society through purposeful action. Nominees should be delivering initiatives or solutions that address social challenges, improve lives, and create sustainable positive impact at scale.
Rising Star Award - Startup of the year
This award honours a company or individual making a measurable difference in society through purposeful action. Nominees should be delivering initiatives or solutions that address social challenges, improve lives, and create sustainable positive impact at scale.
The Blacks Solicitors High-Growth Business of the Year Award
This award recognises businesses that are scaling rapidly and sustainably. Whether through market expansion, revenue growth, or team development, these companies are setting the pace for UK innovation. If your business is growing fast and making a measurable impact, this category is your stage.
Innovation in Health Award - Startup
This award celebrates an early-stage business pioneering innovation in health. Nominees should demonstrate novel approaches, technologies, or solutions that improve health outcomes, accessibility, or efficiency, with strong potential for lasting impact.
Innovation in Health Award - Scaleup
This award celebrates an organisation or individual providing outstanding support to businesses. Whether through advisory services, mentoring, investment, or resources, nominees should demonstrate a proven track record in empowering businesses to succeed and grow.
Future Earth Award
This award honours a business or organisation tackling environmental challenges through innovation and sustainable practice. Nominees should demonstrate measurable progress in reducing environmental impact, promoting circular solutions, or driving the transition to a low-carbon economy.
Ecosystem Growth & Opportunity Award
This award recognises an individual, organisation, or initiative that has significantly strengthened the entrepreneurial and innovation ecosystem. Nominees should demonstrate their role in creating opportunities, fostering collaboration, and building a supportive environment that enables others to thrive.
Excellence in Business Support Award
This award celebrates an organisation or individual providing outstanding support to businesses. Whether through advisory services, mentoring, investment, or resources, nominees should demonstrate a proven track record in empowering businesses to succeed and grow.
Key Awards Dates
- Nominations Close – 1 May 2026
- Public Voting Closes – 29 May 2026
- Finalists Announced – 3 June 2026
- Winners Announced – 1 July 2026