2026 Categories
See what criteria is needed...
Know someone who deserves recognition?
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We’re on the lookout for incredible individuals across Yorkshire - people who show that even through challenges, courage and kindness can shine bright. Maybe they’ve saved lives, inspired others with their story, raised money for charity, or gone above and beyond in business or customer service. Whether they’ve overcome personal hardship or made a lasting impact in their community, we want to hear about them.
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This is a people’s choice award - so not only do you get to nominate, but you help decide who wins too.
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How to nominate your local hero:
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It’s easy. Just have a look through the list of award categories here, choose the one that fits best, and fill in the nomination form below. Make sure you read the rules first - forms that are incomplete or don’t meet the criteria won’t be eligible for the public vote.
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All nominations will be reviewed by our independent adjudicators before they’re put forward to the public vote. We reserve the right to disqualify entries that aren’t in the correct category or incomplete.
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Need help choosing the right category?
You can view the full list of 2025 award categories and what each one covers [here].
The Rules
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How to Submit: All nominations must be made using the official form below. Unfortunately, we can’t accept nominations by email, phone, social media, or via our website contact form - only the nomination form counts.
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Nominee Information: Please fill in all the details for your nominee so we can get in touch with them during the voting stage. You'll also need to include a short write-up (more than 50, up to 200 words) telling us why they deserve to be recognised. Make it count!
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What Might Get Disqualified: Nominations that are incomplete, inaccurate, don’t follow the rules, or aren’t eligible for another reason will be removed from the process - no exceptions.
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Category Nomination: You’re welcome to nominate more than one person and even enter them in multiple categories. Just keep in mind that nominations will only be put forward in the categories that are relevant. Our independent adjudicators may also move nominees into a more suitable category if needed.
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We May Ask for More Info: Sometimes we’ll need extra details during the nomination or voting stages. If that information isn’t provided when requested, may result in it being disqualified.
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Deadline: Any nominations received after the deadline won’t be included - so don’t miss it! Stay up to date with deadlines and regular updates by signing up for our newsletters here.
Closing Date for 2026 Nominations:
30th November 2025
Business Awards
Our Business Awards are a celebration of Independent Businesses' achievements and contributions to the economy and community. Who has shown outstanding ability or determination in the face of difficulties or has gone the extra mile for customers or its community?​
INDEPENDENT BUSINESS OF THE YEAR
Sponsored by:
Businesses in this category must be an independent Yorkshire business, over 3 years trading. Showcasing outstanding contributions of Yorkshire's independent businesses and shining a spotlight on the entrepreneurial brilliance that drives our local economy.
NEW STARTER BUSINESS OF THE YEAR
Sponsored by:
Your chosen new business needs to have been founded after January 2023 and located in Yorkshire. Celebrating the pioneering spirit and groundbreaking achievements of Yorkshire's most promising new businesses.
YORKSHIRE ENTREPRENEUR OF THE YEAR
Sponsored by:
This category is open to entrepreneurs of all ages and must be based in Yorkshire. Honouring the visionary pioneers and extraordinary accomplishments of Yorkshire's entrepreneurial community.
CUSTOMER SERVICE AWARD
Sponsored by:
Businesses must be based in Yorkshire. Celebrating the unwavering commitment to outstanding customer service that sets them apart from the rest.
CHARITABLE BUSINESS AWARD
Sponsored by:
Businesses that contribute to charitable causes and must be based in Yorkshire. Paying tribute to the remarkable charitable businesses that uplift and empower our communities.
Inspirational Awards
Our Inspirational Awards are a celebration of amazing people who have shown extreme courage and determination, whether it is changing their own lives or others.
KATE GRANGER OUTSTANDING CONTRIBUTION AWARD
Sponsored by:
Open to all ages, nominees must be based in Yorkshire. In memory of the remarkable Dr. Kate Granger, category honours individuals who embody the same compassion, dedication, and unwavering commitment to improving lives that defined Kate's inspiring legacy.
INSPIRATIONAL INDIVIDUAL OF THE YEAR
Sponsored by:
Open to all ages, nominees must be based in Yorkshire. Honouring the exceptional achievements and unwavering motivation of those who uplift our community.
THE ROB BURROW OUTSTANDING COURAGE AWARD
Sponsored by:
Open to all ages, nominees must be based in Yorkshire. Recognising the extraordinary courage of Yorkshire's bravest individuals, showcasing those who, like Rob Burrow, have displayed exceptional bravery in the face of adversity, inspiring us all with their remarkable resilience.
CHARITABLE EXCELLENCE AWARD
Sponsored by:
Open to Charities in Yorkshire. This award is of particular significance, as the ultimate winner will not only be recognised for their exceptional charitable contributions but will also be designated as our chosen charity for 2026!
VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR
Sponsored by:
Open to all ages, nominees must be based in Yorkshire. Celebrating the selfless dedication and invaluable contributions of Yorkshire's volunteers, PAYING tribute to the remarkable individuals who make a difference through their unwavering commitment to serving others.
COMMUNITY ARTS AWARD
Sponsored by:
Open to individuals and groups, nominees must be based in Yorkshire. Honouring the creative visionaries and cultural influencers of Yorkshire, showcasing the individuals and organisations that enrich our region through their artistic endeavors.
LOCAL FUNDRAISER OF THE YEAR
Sponsored by:
Open to individuals only and nominees must be based in Yorkshire. Recognising the tireless efforts and incredible impact of Yorkshire's local fundraisers, celebrating the passionate individuals who go above and beyond to raise vital funds for worthy causes within our community.
Sponsor an Award
2026 marks a whole decade of celebrating the brilliant people, businesses, charities, and organisations that make Yorkshire shine - and we’re planning our biggest celebration yet.
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We’d love you to be part of it.
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As a sponsor, you’ll:
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Support an event that champions Yorkshire’s finest
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Align your brand with a cause that matters
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Get valuable exposure across the region
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We’re also proud to announce our 2026 Charity Partner: Candlelighters, who support families affected by childhood cancer.
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Sponsorships are first-come, first-served - sector exclusivity available. Get in touch to secure your spot and join us for an unforgettable 10th anniversary celebration.