Your interactive monthly newsletter update from the North East Chamber of Commerce.
SUPPORT • CONNECT • REPRESENT
20 26
CHAMBER BUSINESS AWARDS
AWARDS GUIDE
WE ARE NORTH EAST BUSINESS
HEADLINE SPONSOR
WELCOME
We support, connect and represent organisations of every size and sector across the North East. Our members are at the heart of building a thriving economy and making the region the best place to live and work. No other organisation represents every size and sector of business, from the borders of Yorkshire to Scotland and Cumbria. We want to celebrate the uniqueness of Chamber membership. A unique feature of the Chamber Business Awards is our national categories, where applicants will first compete within the region, with the winners enjoying an automatic finalist position at the British Chambers of Commerce awards in October/November 2026. For over 200 years, the North East Chamber of Commerce has championed businesses across our region. We are constantly inspired by the strength, determination and positivity of our business community.
Now is the time to recognise your achievements.
OUR HEADLINE SPONSOR
“Bernicia is a housing association fully focused on our region. Bernicia recognises the great work that the North East Chamber of Commerce does to support the region’s business community and to promote the scale and range of opportunities that the North East has to offer. “There are lots of fantastic businesses across the region doing great things every day, helping the North East thrive. The Chamber awards shine a light on these achievements and put North East businesses on a national stage, showcasing innovation, collaboration and our shared determination to help the region grow and prosper.
“As headline sponsor, we’re delighted to be part of championing our region as a great place to live, work and do business.”
necc.co.uk/awards
KEY DATES 31 March 2026 May 2026 18 June 2026 October/November 2026
Submissions close at noon Shortlists announced Awards Final at The Glasshouse International Centre for Music British Chambers of Commerce awards
IMPORTANT SUBMISSION INFORMATION
ALL SUBMISSIONS REQUIRE:
Contact name Company name Company address
Email address Telephone number Social handles
Companies house registration number Number of employees
ATTACHMENTS AND EVIDENCE
Please include your company logo. A maximum of three attachments (for example testimonials, tables, graphs or photos) may be uploaded with your entry form. Attachments must be image files only (JPG, GIF, PNG or TIF) and must not exceed 5MB in total. PDF files are not permitted. Any files that exceed the attachment limit or total file size will be removed.
KEY INFORMATION Your entry must be submitted by noon on 31 March 2026.
Please ensure you check the spelling of your entry and your company name. If you are a winner, this is how your business name will be displayed on the award. When you make any amendments to any part of your entry on Awards Force (our awards platform), please ensure you click the ‘save’ button before leaving that page. You can review your entries in Awards Force by scrolling down under ‘my entries’.
BENEFITS OF ENTERING
Free marketing – being shortlisted improves brand awareness, maximises your visibility and promotes your business. You will receive an image/logo to promote you are shortlisted or a winner – you can use this on marketing materials, emails and socials. Celebrating hard work and success creates great PR opportunities. Boost morale – winning an award feels great. Employees will feel proud of being part of the business. It may also support recruitment. Stand out from your competition. Increase your credibility – a win is a sign of quality for potential customers. Winning a Chamber award has the benefit of your business being potentially recognised nationally. National category winners are automatically entered into the British Chambers of Commerce national awards.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
HOW DO I ENTER?
After reading key information and terms and conditions, click ENTER NOW on the necc.co.uk/awards website and register an account. Choose which category you want to enter and don’t forget to save your progress.
IS IT FREE TO ENTER?
Yes.
CAN NON-MEMBERS APPLY?
No. Entering the Chamber Business Awards is one of the many benefits of Chamber membership. If you’re interested in finding out more email: your@necc.co.uk.
WHICH AWARD CATEGORY DO I ENTER?
Review criteria for each category to see what fits your business best. Questions are listed on the award categories section of the website – www.necc.co.uk/awards. Note - there are both regional categories and national award categories.
CAN I ENTER MORE THAN ONE CATEGORY?
necc.co.uk/awards
Yes.
I'VE PREVIOUSLY CREATED AN AWARDS ACCOUNT AND CAN’T REMEMBER MY PASSWORD, WHAT DO I DO?
Click the forgotten password link. You will receive an email from Awards Force. Check your spam. If you have any problems please contact our events co-ordinator: sarah.connolly@necc.co.uk .
WHO AM I COMPETING WITH?
The awards are open to all Chamber members, representing organisations of every size and sector across the North East.
WHEN ARE SHORTLISTS ANNOUNCED?
Early May.
IF I GET SHORTLISTED WHAT HAPPENS NEXT?
Shortlisted members will be announced on our social channels. The Awards Final event booking site will then open early for shortlisted businesses, you’ll be able to book tables and tickets to the final for guests and colleagues before general sale. The Awards Final takes place on Thursday 18 June at The Glasshouse International Centre for Music.
IS THERE A DRESS CODE?
The event is black tie.
IF I WIN ON THE EVENING, WHAT HAPPENS?
Representatives from your business will accept the award on stage, then have photographs taken before returning to seats. Winners are automatically entered into the Business of the Year category, the final award of the evening.
IF I WIN, WILL I RECEIVE A PHYSICAL AWARD?
Yes, you’ll receive an award and a certificate and after the event, you’ll receive a logo for you to use on marketing materials, emails and socials.
WHAT HAPPENS IF I WIN A NATIONAL CATEGORY?
Winning a Chamber Business Award has the added benefit of your business potentially being recognised nationally, as award winners that enter and win national categories go through to the British Chambers of Commerce national awards.
CAN I REVISIT MY ENTRY AND SUBMIT IT LATER?
Yes (but we do encourage you to start your application sooner rather than later).
If you need additional support, please contact: sarah.connolly@necc.co.uk or ashley.carney@necc.co.uk.
REGIONAL CATEGORIES
Regional categories find and recognise the best businesses in the North East.
Business of the Year 2025 Winner - PD Ports
“Winning these awards is a testament to the hard work and ingenuity of our team at PD Ports, who’ve fully backed our mission to cut carbon emissions across our operations. “Our goal is to become the UK’s most sustainable port, powered by clean, green energy. “Sustainability runs through everything we do – from multi-million-pound investments in electric-powered infrastructure to designing eco-conscious facilities and encouraging energy-saving initiatives across our workforce. “Thank you to all of our teams in Teesside and across the UK for their hard work and dedication – these awards are recognition of that effort.”
Paul Foreman Chief operating officer PD Ports
necc.co.uk/awards
necc.co.uk/awards
Small Business of the Year 2025 Winner - Forfusion
For small businesses demonstrating growth and clear purpose, with positive impact on their customers and workforce. Open to members with under 50 employees. SMALL BUSINESS OF THE YEAR To enter this category please provide the following information: An overview of your turnover and net profit over the last two years, as well as current net reserves. Please note: we require an overview, and a projection where exact figures may not have yet been finalised or signed off. All financial information submitted is strictly confidential. A brief description of your business; the products or services it supplies, its customers and the markets it operates in. An overview of your staffing structure. Describe your business’ achievements since it was established and how these were accomplished. What external factors have affected your business and how have you dealt with those effects? Describe your business’ objectives for the next 6 to 18 months and how you plan to achieve them. Summarise your application in 100 words (if shortlisted, this content may be used in the host’s speech or printed).
Sponsored by
REGIONAL CATEGORIES
LARGER BUSINESS OF THE YEAR
For established organisations demonstrating growth, strong leadership and clear purpose, with positive impact on their workforce, sector and region. Open to members with over 50 employees. To enter this category please provide the following information: An overview of your turnover and net profit over the last two years, as well as current net reserves. Please note: we require an overview, and a projection where exact figures may not have yet been finalised or signed off. All financial information submitted is strictly confidential. A brief description of your business; the products or services it supplies, its customers and the markets it operates in. An overview of your staffing structure. Describe your business' achievements since it was established and how these were accomplished. What external factors have affected your business and how have you dealt with those effects? Describe your business’ objectives for the next 6 to 18 months and how you plan to achieve them. Summarise your application in 100 words (if shortlisted, this content may be used in the host’s speech or printed).
Larger Business of the Year 2025 Winner - Metrocentre
necc.co.uk/awards
Community Business of the Year 2025 Winner - Sage plc / Sage Foundation
COMMUNITY BUSINESS OF THE YEAR
For organisations that facilitate, participate in or enable community engagement through initiatives, demonstrating the power of giving back and clear commitment to positive local impact. To enter this category please provide the following information: An overview of your turnover and net profit over the last two years, as well as current net reserves. Please note: we require an overview, and a projection where exact figures may not have yet been finalised or signed off. All financial information submitted is strictly confidential. A brief description of your business; the products or services it supplies and its customers. Tell us how the business is involved in the local community. Tell us how the business has made a difference in the community and the results. How does the business plan to sustain the community programme? What makes the business a community champion? Testimonials are encouraged. Summarise your application in 100 words (if shortlisted, this content may be used in the host’s speech or printed).
REGIONAL CATEGORIES
BUSINESS LEADER OF THE YEAR
For individuals who lead a business with a clear vision and commercial success, demonstrating leadership, innovation and measurable growth while contributing positively to the wider economy, and showing integrity, influence and direction. To enter this category please provide the following information: An overview of your turnover and net profit over the last two years, as well as current net reserves. Please note: we require an overview and a projection where exact figures may not yet have been finalised or signed off. All financial information submitted is strictly confidential. An overview of your business experience and career to date. A brief description of your business; the products or services it supplies, its customers and the markets it operates in. Tell us about a significant change in the business’ operating environment and how you have demonstrated leadership in responding to it. Your business objectives for the next 6 to 18 months and how you plan to achieve them. Tell us about you. What makes you Business Leader of the Year? How do you demonstrate integrity, influence, innovation, direction and leadership in your role? Testimonials are encouraged. Summarise your application in 100 words (if shortlisted, this content may be used in the host’s speech or printed materials).
Sponsored by
Entrepreneur Of The Year 2025 Winner - Sam Gordon, Director, Big Purple Group & 2026 Award Sponsor Sponsoring the 2026 awards is my way of giving back and helping spotlight the next generation of business leaders and entrepreneurs who are building bold ideas here in the North East.” “Winning the award in 2025 was an incredible honour. This region is full of ambitious, resilient founders, and I’m proud to be part of such a strong entrepreneurial community.
Customer Excellence Business of the Year 2025 Winner - Dawson & Sanderson Ltd
This award recognises a business committed to delivering an excellent customer experience. It highlights organisations that define and implement a clear vision for customer service and consistently go above and beyond to engage customers. To enter this category please provide the following information: An overview of your turnover and net profit over the last two years, as well as current net reserves. Please note: we require an overview, and a projection where exact figures may not have yet been finalised or signed off. All financial information submitted is strictly confidential. A brief description of your business; the products or services it supplies and its customers. How does your company define “customer experience” and what is your overall vision for delivering exceptional service? Can you share an example of how your company has gone above and beyond to engage with a customer or surprise them with exceptional service? What happens if a customer has a poor experience – how do you address this and prevent it from happening again? What do you see as the future of customer experience in your industry and how is your company preparing for these changes? Summarise your application in 100 words (if shortlisted, this content may be used in the host’s speech or printed). CUSTOMER EXCELLENCE BUSINESS OF THE YEAR
REGIONAL CATEGORIES
RISING STAR
For individuals at an early stage of their career demonstrating potential and initiative, already making a notable contribution within their organisation, profession or wider sector. A future leader in the making. To enter this category please provide the following information: Confirm the nominee’s organisation is reputable and financially stable. A brief description of your business; the products or services it supplies and its customers. Provide a personal profile and background of the nominee. Explain how the nominee might be a future leader, a rising star with an exciting future ahead. What positive impact has the nominee had on the business? Outline why the individual should be awarded the ‘Rising Star’ award. Testimonials are encouraged. Summarise your application in 100 words (if shortlisted, this content may be used in the host’s speech or printed).
Sponsored by
The most prestigious award of the evening , Business of the Year is presented to the overall standout organisation , selected from this year ’ s category winners and representing every size and sector of business across the North East , from the borders of Yorkshire to Scotland and Cumbria . The most prestigious award of the evening, Business of the Year is presented to the overall standout organisation, selected from this year’s category winners and representing every size and sector of business across the North East, from the borders of Yorkshire to Scotland and Cumbria. BUSINESS OF THE YEAR
necc.co.uk/awards
necc.co.uk/awards
NATIONAL CATEGORIES When applying to the following categories, you'll first compete within the region, then the winners of these categories will become automatic finalists at the national British Chambers of Commerce awards, representing the North East in October/November 2026.
GREEN INNOVATION BUSINESS OF THE YEAR
For organisations implementing sustainable practices or environmental innovations that reduce impact, improve resource efficiency and support cleaner growth, with measurable environmental outcomes within their core business operations. To enter this category please provide the following information: An overview of your turnover and net profit over the last two years, as well as current net reserves. Please note: we require an overview, and a projection where exact figures may not have yet been finalised or signed off. All financial information submitted is strictly confidential. A brief description of your business; the products or services it supplies, its customers and the markets it operates in. Evidence that sustainability is at the heart of the business (figures or strategy details of how you manage your environmental impact; e.g. progressing towards lower carbon emission operations or waste reduction and efficiency). Details of your commitment to sustainable best practice. Your achievements over the last 12 months that make you stand out in this area. Summarise your application in 100 words (if shortlisted, this content may be used in the host’s speech or printed).
necc.co.uk/awards
INTERNATIONAL TRADE BUSINESS OF THE YEAR
This award recognises a business that has demonstrated international growth through a clear understanding of overseas markets, highlighting the benefits of trading internationally. To enter this category please provide the following information: An overview of your turnover and net profit over the last two years, as well as current net reserves. Please note: we require an overview, and a projection where exact figures may not have yet been finalised or signed off. All financial information submitted is strictly confidential. A brief description of your business; the products or services it supplies and its customers. Evidence of sustained growth internationally. How your business has embraced and taken advantage of the opportunities that overseas markets present. Which overseas markets you operate in and new markets you are looking to expand into. How the above has impacted your business. Summarise your application in 100 words (if shortlisted, this content may be used in the host’s speech or printed).
Sponsored by
International Trade Business of the Year 2025 Winner & 2026 Award Sponsor - Walker Filtration
necc.co.uk/awards
Start Up and Grow Business of the Year 2025 Winner - Sustainable Business Services Ltd
START UP AND GROW BUSINESS OF THE YEAR
For early-stage businesses demonstrating clear growth, commercial traction and scalability, supported by innovative products or services and evidence of strong market entry within a short operating period (for start up and grow businesses under 2 years). To enter this category please provide the following information: An overview of your turnover and net profit over the last two years, as well as current net reserves. Please note: we require an overview, and a projection where exact figures may not have yet been finalised or signed off. All financial information submitted is strictly confidential. A brief description of your business; the products or services it supplies, its customers and the markets it operates in. What inspired you to start your business? Describe your business journey and how your business is growing. Challenges you have faced since starting your business and how you have overcome them. The business’ vision for continued growth over the next three to five years and plans for long-term financial sustainability. How your business has demonstrated a commitment to your local economy. Summarise your application in 100 words (if shortlisted, this content may be used in the host’s speech or printed).
Sponsored by
NATIONAL CATEGORIES
A business that is harnessing the power of digital innovation and technology to drive success. This category recognises companies that have made a significant impact through the development or adoption of cutting-edge digital solutions, whether through pioneering technology, digital transformation, AI, cybersecurity or e-commerce excellence. Judges will be looking for businesses that demonstrate innovation, measurable success and a forward-thinking approach to the ever- evolving digital landscape. To enter this category please provide the following information: An overview of your turnover and net profit over the last two years, as well as current net reserves. Please note: we require an overview, and a projection where exact figures may not have yet been finalised or signed off. All financial information submitted is strictly confidential. A brief description of your business; the products or services it supplies, its customers and the markets it operates in. Challenges the business has faced (that may have driven change). Evidence of how your business has used digital solutions to transform their market, products or services. Details of how these technological changes have driven productivity. Please summarise your application in 100 words (if shortlisted, this content may be used in the host’s speech or printed). DIGITAL AND TECHNOLOGY BUSINESS OF THE YEAR
Digital and Technology Business of the Year 2025 Winner - Southern Asset Management Ltd
People and Work Business of the Year 2025 Winner - Square One Law
PEOPLE AND WORK BUSINESS OF THE YEAR
For organisations demonstrating strong employment practices and workforce development, evidenced through recruitment, retention, training and wellbeing initiatives that positively influence performance and employee experience, with diversity and inclusion playing a clear and central role in their culture. To enter this category please provide the following information: An overview of your turnover and net profit over the last two years, as well as current net reserves. Please note: we require an overview, and a projection where exact figures may not have yet been finalised or signed off. All financial information submitted is strictly confidential. A brief description of your business; the products or services it supplies, its customers and the markets it operates in. The business’ approach to recruitment, retention, training and development of a skilled and diverse workforce. How this approach has enhanced the business’ performance. Evidence of fairness, diversity and inclusion being at the heart of the business. How the business is championing this approach within the workplace, customer base and local community. Testimonials are encouraged. Summarise your application in 100 words (if shortlisted, this content may be used in the host’s speech or printed).
NATIONAL CATEGORIES
necc.co.uk/awards
TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF ENTRY
Only fully paid NECC members can enter these awards. Members must apply under their current membership package. Entry to more than one category is permitted. Financial information will be treated in confidence but forms will be shared with a select group of individuals for judging purposes. Information from the entry may be used for the host’s speech. By applying for a national category, you’re consenting to the contents within the application being shared with the British Chambers of Commerce, to be used in their shortlisting process and may also be used as part of a digital case study. All entries must be electronic. Submissions should reflect your organisation’s own work and voice. While AI tools may be used for basic editing, entries that appear primarily AI-generated or lack authentic evidence may be marked down. Any website links used within your entry will not be activated by the judges. Applicants must be authorised to enter their organisation. Category or headline sponsors are not permitted to apply to these awards in the same year as their sponsorship. No employee of North East Chamber of Commerce, British Chambers of Commerce or an accredited Chamber are entitled to enter. In entering an award you are not guaranteed to be shortlisted. Three/Four businesses will be chosen to be shortlisted with one winner announced at the Awards Final. The judging panel consists of representatives from each category sponsor, as well as representatives from individual businesses across the North East. Awards are judged via the Awards Force external platform. Incomplete entries will not be judged. Please note, you will be judged by the content on your form. There will not be a face to face interview. The judges’ decision is final and no further correspondence will be entered into. Award winners will be announced at The Glasshouse International Centre for Music Gateshead on the evening of 18 June 2026. Please keep 18 June 2026 free to attend the awards if you are shortlisted (please note, there is a cost to attend the awards). By registering and completing an entry for the awards, you agree to these terms and conditions.
COMING SUMMER 2026
ENTRIES OPEN SUMMER 2026
AWARDS FINAL 27 NOVEMBER 2026
20 26
Recognising truly inspiring women from across the North East business community. Those who make a difference in their field, to their businesses and colleagues, to their community and to our great region. BUSINESS AWARDS INSPIRING WOMEN IN
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NORTH EAST CHAMBER OF COMMERCE, A COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE REGISTERED OFFICE: COMMERCE HOUSE, AYKLEY HEADS BUSINESS CENTRE, DURHAM DH1 5TS. REGISTERED IN ENGLAND: 02938084. VAT REGISTRATION NUMBER: GB454990806. North East Chamber of Commerce, a company limited by guarantee Registered office: Commerce House, Aykley Heads Business Centre, Durham DH1 5TS. Registered in England: 02938084. VAT Registration Number: GB454990806.
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