Entries now open for the Harrogate Business Awards 2026 as popular annual event returns

Now celebrating its 21st year, the Harrogate Advertiser is proud to present the Harrogate Business Awards 2026.

The prestigious awards continue to recognise and celebrate a diverse range of businesses and the vital role they play in driving the economic success of the region, with prizes presented in 12 different categories.

The awards ceremony and gala dinner will be held on Thursday, September 24, at the DoubleTree by Hilton Majestic Hotel in Harrogate.

The Harrogate Advertiser events manager said: “This black tie glitzy event promises to be an unforgettable evening, bringing together over 250 esteemed guests from the business community.

“Attendees will enjoy a sparkling drinks reception, a sumptuous three-course meal paired with wine and the highlight of the evening, the awards presentation, which will leave you inspired and uplifted.

“Join us at the DoubleTree by Hilton Majestic Hotel on Thursday, September 24, to celebrate over two decades of excellence and the very best of Harrogate's business community.”

Entries are now open for this year’s awards, which include the introduction of two brand new categories.

Event of the Year recognises a standout event in the Harrogate district.

The Best Restaurant Award is open to nominations from an outstanding restaurant, bistro or dining venue in Harrogate that consistently delivers exceptional dining experiences and has earned the support and admiration of its customers. The top entries will go to a public vote to determine the winner.

This year’s event is kindly sponsored by Made Smarter Yorkshire and Humber, Oakdale Golf Club, Turkish Baths Harrogate and The Fat Badger Group. This year’s charity partner is Aphasia Support.

Simon Cotton, of The Fat Badger Group, said: “Fat Badger Group is delighted once again to be a sponsor of the prestigious Harrogate Business Awards.

“These are the original and most coveted business awards for our district and it is great for our business to be associated with them.”

Mike Scahill, of Oakdale Golf Club, said: “The Harrogate Business Awards is an important opportunity for us to connect with our community, strengthen partnerships and support a shared vision for growth.

“We’re proud to support it again because of the real impact it delivers and the value it creates for everyone involved.”

Mike Pennington, of Made Smarter Yorkshire and Humber, said: “We are delighted to sponsor the Harrogate Business Awards 2026.

“We have been involved for the last three years and it really does fit with the Yorkshire and Humber Made Smarter digital programme, which looks to support local manufacturing businesses across the region, as well as the stars of tomorrow through our leadership and intern programmes.”

Here is the full list of award categories:

Business in the Community Award

This award recognises a dynamic contribution a company has made to the local community by supporting local charities, initiatives or other community events.

Business Leader/Entrepreneur of the Year

This award celebrates a business leader or entrepreneur who shows outstanding drive, commitment and results.

Best SME Company

This award recognises outstanding performance by a company with a workforce of 1-249 staff that is excelling in its field.

Best Independent Business of the Year

This category is aimed at independent businesses in the Harrogate district. This could be a privately owned business, a sole proprietorship or a business owned by a very small group of individuals.

Tourism Award

This award will be presented to the organisation that can demonstrate the most significant contribution to improving the district’s offering as a tourism destination over the past couple of years and is open to any organisation connected to hospitality or tourism.

Sustainability Award

This award will be presented to a business that puts sustainability and the environment at the heart of its business.

Rural Business of the Year – Sponsored by The Fat Badger Group

Celebrating businesses located in a rural community, small town, village or hamlet.

Technology and Digital Award – Sponsored by Made Smarter Yorkshire and Humber

Open to SaaS companies, digital agencies and technology innovators who are excelling in their field.

Retail or Leisure Business of the Year – Sponsored by Oakdale Golf Club

Open to any retail, leisure facility or similar business excelling in its field and driving positive economic impact for the area.

Hospitality Business of the Year – Sponsored by Turkish Baths Harrogate

This category is open to any hospitality business including cafes, bars, pubs, hotels, restaurants and event venues. This category aims to celebrate and reward the hospitality businesses who are showing the highest levels of commitment and success in the Harrogate district and surrounding areas.

Event of the Year

This is a brand new category for 2026 and recognises a standout event in the Harrogate district. Judges will look for events that engage communities, support local businesses and offer an exceptional visitor experience. This could include agricultural or horticultural shows, food or music festivals, home or fashion events.

Best Restaurant Award

This is a brand new category for 2026 and recognises an outstanding restaurant, bistro or dining venue in Harrogate that consistently delivers exceptional dining experiences and has earned the support and admiration of its customers. The top 6-8 entries will be sent to a public vote to determine the winner.

For more information and to submit entries, visit www.harrogatebusinessawards.co.uk

The deadline for entries is 11pm on August 7.

For sponsorship enquiries, please contact events business development manager, Jodie Selby, on [email protected]