Entries for the North West Business Awards are open from Monday 24th February 2025 to Friday 2nd May 2025.
To maximise your entry, read our tips on writing a successful entry HERE!
Categories available for entry are below:
Young Business Person of The Year is sponsored by Alchemy Technology Services
Are you a young person with a big idea, a bold vision, or a business that's already making waves? This award is for you!
We’re looking for inspiring young business minds under the age of 22 who are showing real innovation, leadership, and passion in what they do. Whether you’ve started your own business or are doing amazing things in an existing one, we want to celebrate your drive, creativity, and determination.
This is your chance to be recognised as one of the next generation’s business trailblazers — someone who’s pushing boundaries, overcoming challenges, and making a real difference.
Entries are NOW - we can’t wait to see what you’re doing!
This award is sponsored by Loganair
Great things happen when people work together — and this award is all about celebrating partnership!
The Educational Partnership Award shines a spotlight on amazing collaborations that are making a real difference in education. Whether it’s a school teaming up with a local business, a community project, or a creative partnership that’s opening new doors for learners — we want to recognise the power of teamwork in action.
If you're part of a partnership that’s sparking innovation, boosting learning, and helping people grow, this award is for you. From breaking down barriers to inspiring lifelong learning, this award honours those who are working together to create brighter futures.
Your entry will be judged solely on the information you provide in the form below, so before you begin read our tips on how to write a great Business Awards entry HERE!
This award is sponsored by U105 Radio
Calling all foodie favourites and hidden gems - this one's for you!
The Restaurant of the Year Award celebrates the North West’s most loved dining spots - the places that wow us with flavour, creativity, and unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re a cosy local bistro, a stylish fine dining spot, or anything in between, this is your chance to be recognised for your passion, flair, and the amazing dishes that keep people coming back for more.
We’re looking for restaurants that not only serve incredible food but also create a welcoming atmosphere, top-notch service, and moments that stick with diners long after the meal is over.
Entries are open NOW until May 2nd 2025.
Your entry will be judged solely on the information you provide in the form below, so before you begin read our tips on how to write a great Business Awards entry HERE!
This category is sponsored by Smart Pay NI
The Retailer of the Year Award honours those who go the extra mile to wow their customers - whether it’s through great customer service, exciting products, or unforgettable shopping experiences. From buzzing high street shops to charming independent boutiques, we’re shining a light on the retailers who truly stand out.
If you’re passionate about your customers, love what you do, and are always finding new ways to make shopping better, this is your chance to gain the recognition you deserve. Whether it's clever use of tech, creative ideas, or just good old-fashioned amazing service - we want to celebrate YOU.
Entries are open NOW!
Your entry will be judged solely on the information you provide in the form below, so before you begin read our tips on how to write a great Business Awards entry HERE!
Is your hotel a place guests can’t wait to come back to?
The Hotel of the Year Award celebrates the very best in hospitality across the North West - from standout service and beautiful spaces to unforgettable guest experiences. Whether you’re a grand landmark, a stylish boutique retreat, or a cosy getaway with a personal touch, we want to recognise what makes your hotel truly special.
We’re looking for hotels that go above and beyond to make every stay amazing - offering comfort, warmth, and those extra touches that turn a trip into a memory.
Entries are NOW open until Friday 2nd May 2025.
Your entry will be judged solely on the information you provide in the form below, so before you begin read our tips on how to write a great Business Awards entry HERE!
This category is sponsored by Toast
Are you part of a business that’s using creativity to do amazing things? This award is for you!
The Creative Industries Business of the Year Award celebrates businesses that are using fresh ideas, bold thinking, and artistic talent to make an impact. From media and entertainment to fashion, design, and more - if your work is original, exciting, and making waves, we want to hear about it.
We’re looking for companies that turn imagination into real success - whether that’s through unforgettable experiences, eye-catching designs, or innovative projects that bring something new to the table.
Make your entry before Friday 2nd May 2025.
Your entry will be judged solely on the information you provide in the form below, so before you begin read our tips on how to write a great Business Awards entry HERE!
This category is sponsored by City of Derry Airport
This award is all about celebrating the people, businesses, and initiatives making a big difference in the North West.
We’re looking for those who are driving growth, creating jobs, and helping the region thrive — from standout businesses to exciting events and tourism projects that have put the North West on the map. These changemakers are inspiring others and helping the local economy grow.
Entries are open until Friday 2nd May 2025.
Your entry will be judged solely on the information you provide in the form below, so before you begin read our tips on how to write a great Business Awards entry HERE!
This award is sponsored by Allstate NI
This award celebrates the incredible people, teams, and companies that are making a real impact in the world of technology and innovation.
We’re looking for those who are breaking new ground, solving tough problems, and making industries better with their creative ideas, inventions, and solutions. Whether it’s a new start up or a big name in tech, this award recognises those who are changing the game - from improving healthcare to creating sustainable technologies or changing the way we connect with one another.
If you’re doing something amazing with tech, we want to hear about it!
Make your entry before Friday 2nd May 2025.
Your entry will be judged solely on the information you provide in the form below, so before you begin read our tips on how to write a great Business Awards entry HERE!
This year's Pub of The Year is to be decided by public vote!
Sponsored by Derry Journal, the North West Pub of the Year Award is a prestigious recognition of excellence, hospitality, and community spirit within the vibrant pub scene of the North West region.
From historic bars to contemporary gastropubs, the North West Pub of the Year Award honours those establishments that excel in providing exceptional service, quality beverages, and a welcoming atmosphere. These beloved pubs are more than just places to grab a drink; they are hubs of social interaction, cultural exchange, and community connection.
Nominations are open NOW!
This award is sponsored by Derry City & Strabane District Council
The Sustainability Champions of The Year Award is a prestigious honour celebrating the individuals, organisations, and initiatives that are leading the charge towards a greener, more sustainable future. From ground-breaking innovations to tireless advocacy, these champions are driving positive change in areas such as environmental conservation, renewable energy, waste reduction, and social responsibility.
Whether it's through innovative technology, community engagement or policy advocacy, these champions inspire others to join the movement towards a more sustainable world and contribute towards a circular economy.
The category is open NOW!
Your entry will be judged solely on the information you provide in the form below, so before you begin read our tips on how to write a great Business Awards entry HERE!
This award is sponsored by BHP Security Solutions
This award celebrates the brilliant minds behind the marketing magic - the individuals, teams, and agencies who are turning big ideas into bold, unforgettable campaigns.
Whether you’re telling stories that stick, creating scroll-stopping content, or finding fresh ways to connect with audiences, we want to recognise your creativity, strategy, and impact. It’s all about those marketers who think outside the box, shake things up, and leave people saying, “Wow, that was clever!”
If you’ve made people laugh, think, feel - or better yet, click - enter by Friday 2nd May 2025
Entries are open NOW!
Your entry will be judged solely on the information you provide in the form below, so before you begin read our tips on how to write a great Business Awards entry HERE!
The Taste of The North West Award is a delectable celebration of culinary excellence, innovation, and local flavours within the diverse and vibrant food scene of the North West region. This award honours the outstanding food outlets, artisans, and food producers that tantalise taste buds and showcase the region's rich gastronomic heritage.
This award recognizes their contribution to making the North West a destination for food lovers and a showcase of the region's culinary prowess and honours the establishments and individuals who embody the spirit of culinary authenticity, and a passion for quality ingredients and unique flavours and ingredients of the North West.
Entries are open NOW!
Your entry will be judged solely on the information you provide in the form below, so before you begin read our tips on how to write a great Business Awards entry HERE!
This award is sponsored by Ulster University Business School Magee
The North West Business Hero Award celebrates the unsung champions of the business world who go above and beyond to make a positive impact in their communities and beyond. This award category is open to all individuals, businesses or service providers who have demonstrated that they have dedicated themselves or their business/ organisation to help others or promoted the North West as a great place to do business.
From philanthropic initiatives to innovative solutions that address social and environmental challenges, the North West Business Hero Award recognises those who embody the values of integrity, compassion, and community spirit. These business heroes inspire others with their selflessness, generosity, and commitment to making a meaningful difference in the lives of others.
Nominations for Business Hero are open NOW!
This award is all about celebrating the heart and hustle of small businesses that are making a big impact!
From family-run gems to exciting new startups, we’re recognising businesses with fewer than 50 employees who have shown incredible drive, creativity, and resilience. Whether you’ve grown through tough times, found clever ways to stand out, or made a real difference in your community — we see you, and we think you deserve a spotlight!
If you’re passionate about what you do and proud of how far you’ve come, this is your moment.
Entries are open now!
Your entry will be judged solely on the information you provide in the form below, so before you begin read our tips on how to write a great Business Awards entry HERE!
This award is sponsored by Davy Group
The North West Large Business of the Year Award celebrates the outstanding achievements, innovation, and leadership of large businesses within the dynamic North West region. This award recognizes enterprises that demonstrate excellence in driving economic growth, fostering innovation, and making a significant impact on the community and beyond.
From industry giants to multinational corporations, the North West Large Business of the Year Award recognises those organisations that exemplify corporate responsibility, sustainability, and a commitment to excellence in all aspects of their operations.
This category is open to any business with more than 50 employees.
Entries are open NOW!
Your entry will be judged solely on the information you provide in the form below, so before you begin read our tips on how to write a great Business Awards entry HERE!
This is a non-entry award, nominees will be selected by NWRC from their Higher Level Apprenticeship programme
North West Regional College has led the way in developing the Higher Level Apprenticeships framework within Northern Ireland based on strong links with academic partners and business.
A Higher Level Apprenticeship is a unique work-based programme, which enables participants to earn while they learn and gain a nationally recognised higher-level qualification. Successful candidates will be employed in a company relevant to their chosen profession to gain valuable industry experience. This experience will feature a close mentoring relationship and academic support provided by North West Regional College as they progress through the relevant higher-level qualification.
This is a non-entry award – the winner is to be selected by the Strabane BID panel.
First established in 2016 by a majority vote of the businesses within the BID area, Strabane BID is a means of regenerating Strabane town, increasing football, and improving the trading environment.
Set up as an independent, not-for-profit company, the BID board contains representation from businesses and stakeholders in the BID area. Each business within the area contributes by paying an annual Levy, based on the rateable value of their business premises.
Collectively investing in the area gives businesses and stakeholders more control to have their input on what they want to see, and how they can deliver it.
To find out more about Strabane BID, visit www.lovestrabane.com
This is a non-entry award that has been awarded by the judging panel; this company or person will be chosen on the basis of outstanding contribution to business, drive, ambition, vision, tenacity, inspirational leadership, inventiveness and confidence.
The Brilliance In Business Award is a Judge's Choice award and is the most coveted and hotly anticipated presentation of the night.
The award will go to the business or entrepreneur that is representative of all that is positive about the work that takes place in the city on a daily basis.
Thank you to our amazing sponsors!