THE countdown is on!
Nominations are now officially open for the 2026 Telegraph & Argus Bradford BUSINESSiQ Awards and this year’s event is set to be our biggest and most spectacular celebration yet.
So, make sure you mark your calendars for Thursday, July 9.
The awards will be hosted at Bradford Live for the very first time.
The Bradford BUSINESSiQ Awards aim to celebrate success, recognise achievement, and highlight the innovative people and companies throughout the district who are putting the region on the map by boosting the economy while making a positive contribution to the local community.
We believe that the passion, determination, tireless energy, and skill that goes into running a top-performing company all deserve recognition.
Our award categories are designed to celebrate businesses from across a range of sectors.
The Categories
SME Business of The Year– This award honours companies with strong financial performance and significant success over the year. It celebrates businesses vital to the economy, with judges evaluating current trading performance, growth potential, and future development opportunities.
Employer of The Year– This award recognises the region’s top employers, highlighting strong investment in employees, reward schemes, and key benefits. Companies must prioritise its employee, showcasing themselves as one of the best workplaces in the area.
New Business of The Year– Open to companies with under two years of trading, this award celebrates innovative planning, exceptional marketing, and future contributions to the region. Judges will assess business plans, achievements, and growth potential.
Innovation Award – Celebrating leaders in research and development across manufacturing, software, or digital technologies. Open to ideas at any stage, from prototypes to full implementation, judges seek evidence of innovation driving new revenue, cost savings, efficiency, or sustainability, showcasing out-of-the-box thinking and impact.
Best Professional Service – This award will honour a business that demonstrates excellence in professional service delivery. The recipient will showcase exceptional professional credentials, such as high levels of accreditation among senior leaders, effective promotion of a strong brand identity that contributes to the company’s achievements, and a commitment to professionalism in service delivery.
Apprentice of The Year– This award celebrates outstanding apprentices who have excelled in their programs and the employers who supported their growth. Finalists will have gone above and beyond, showcasing success and dedication in launching their careers.
Sustainability Award– This award is designed to recognise those that have done the most to improve overall environmental performance and enhance sustainability. Sustainable businesses are so important in today’s environment and this category rewards those who are making strides to become more sustainable year on year.
Manufacturer of The Year– This award honours manufacturers driving economic growth and community vibrancy through innovation, productivity, and best practices. Judges will assess excellence, success, growth, and industry leadership.
Family Business of The Year– This award recognises family businesses that show sustained success while upholding family values. Judges will consider the business’s aspirations and how future generations will contribute to its growth.
NEW for 2026 Business in the Community Award– This award recognises organisations of all sizes and sectors committed to making a positive impact on the community. Judges will look for evidence of initiatives, policies, and staff involvement that drive positive change.
How to take part
Entering the awards is easy – just follow this link or scan the barcode above.
The more you tell us, the more we can make sure we select the best to be shortlisted.
Sponsorship opportunities available
Sponsorship opportunities are now available for businesses looking to align their brand with one of Bradford’s most talked-about events.
For more details, simply get in touch with the team at steve.lowe@localiq.co.uk.
Telling your story
Steve Lowe, sales director at the Telegraph & Argus said: “As someone who works closely with businesses across the district, I see first‑hand the ambition, innovation and commitment that exists right across Bradford.
“Entering these awards is a powerful way to showcase that success, raise your profile, and gain recognition for the hard work of your team.
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“The Bradford BUSINESSiQ Awards aren’t just about winning on the night – they’re about telling your story, building credibility, and positioning your business among the very best in the region.
“Good Luck and I am looking forward to toasting the winners in July.”
