Closed for new nominations

2026 Award Categories

We are thrilled to introduce four brand-new categories for the 2026 Black British Business Awards! This allows us to celebrate even more Black British Leaders and Entrepreneurs in business across more sectors. These stand-out achievers will be those who have achieved significant and demonstrable success in their chosen fields, and who are making an impact on and through their business.

Parent Categories

Rising Star

A Black professional who demonstrates exceptional performance in their business or sector, a leader amongst their peers and exceeding expectations as a culture carrier ‐ the one to watch. Rising Star nominees should be aged 35 or under on 17 June 2026.

Senior Leader

An outstanding Black senior executive with at least 10 years of relevant experience who is recognised by industry observers as an expert in their field. A senior manager operating at a strategic level in their business, leading significant populations, projects, budgets and/or product lines. A role model, inspiration and game changer.

Main Categories

Arts and Media

This category includes all media, design, performance art, publishing, and advertising industries.

Entrepreneur

This category celebrates individuals who are operating their own business or social enterprise for over 18 months as of 17 June 2026.

Financial Services

This category includes banks, brokers, payment services, insurance companies, credit card funds, and regulators.

Fashion & Beauty

This category includes professionals across fashion design, styling, modelling, cosmetics, skincare, haircare, and luxury beauty.

FMCG

This category includes professionals in companies that manufacture, market, or distribute everyday consumer products – from food and beverages to household and personal care goods.

Professional Services

This category includes law, accounting, management consultancy, and in-house professionals.

Retail & Hospitality

This category includes professionals working in retail, e-commerce, travel, leisure, food service, and hospitality.

Science & Engineering

This category includes professionals and innovators in scientific research, pharmaceuticals, engineering, environmental sustainability, and related technical disciplines.

Technology

This category includes professionals across software, data, AI, cybersecurity, digital transformation, and emerging technologies.

The examples provided for each category are not exhaustive. If you are nominating yourself or someone else, select the category that is the best fit.

Nominations for the 2026 BBBAwards are now closed. If you would like to get in touch around sponsorship opportunities please contact the team here.

Refer someone for next year’s BBBAwards

Nominations are now closed for new nominations.

If you know someone who deserves to be nominated for the Awards, you can refer them to take part in the future. 

Take a look at our official gallery from the 2025 Black British Business Awards ceremony in London here.