|
|
STEP has officially announced the launch of the new Stirlingshire Business Awards, a celebration of outstanding business achievement across the region. Designed to recognise excellence in all its forms, the awards are completely free to enter and open to businesses of every size, stage and sector, from ambitious start-ups to established local organisations.
The awards aim to create a level playing field, giving equal opportunity to all entrants. Businesses can nominate themselves or be nominated by others within the Stirlingshire area, with the option to submit entries across multiple categories.
Award Categories
Nominations are open until 31 May 2026, spanning ten diverse categories that reflect the breadth and strength of the local business community:
- Business of the Year – Recognising an exceptional business demonstrating strong performance, clear vision and meaningful impact across growth, innovation, workplace culture and community contribution.
- Rural Business of the Year – Celebrating businesses thriving in rural areas by overcoming location-based challenges through resilience, creativity and deep local connections.
- Finest Food – Open to food and drink producers, cafés, restaurants and hospitality businesses that deliver outstanding quality, craftsmanship and customer experience, with a focus on sustainability, innovation, or local sourcing.
- Digital and/or Green Innovator – Honouring businesses using digital technologies and/or sustainable practices to drive positive change, improve efficiency and reduce environmental impact.
- One-Person Powerhouse – Spotlighting solo entrepreneurs achieving remarkable success, demonstrating ambition, adaptability and influence beyond their scale.
- Non-Profit Excellence – Recognising charities and social enterprises delivering measurable impact through strong leadership, clear outcomes and sustainable operations.
- Young Trailblazer – Celebrating entrepreneurs aged 16–25 who are challenging conventions with bold ideas, fresh thinking and clear momentum.
- New Business of the Year – Open to businesses trading for up to 18 months, highlighting promising start-ups with strong foundations and growth potential.
- Family Business of the Year – Acknowledging family-run enterprises that successfully blend tradition with innovation while maintaining strong values and long-term vision.
- Top Tenant – Awarded to a STEP tenant that demonstrates outstanding contribution to their workspace, fostering collaboration, growth and a positive business environment.
Judging Process and Key Dates
Judging will begin in June 2026, with winners set to be notified in August ahead of the official awards ceremony in September 2026.
Head Judge Mike Barclay shared his enthusiasm for the inaugural awards:
“I’m incredibly excited to see the calibre and diversity of entries from across Stirlingshire. These awards have been designed to truly reflect the strength, innovation and ambition within our business community. Each category offers an opportunity to showcase a different aspect of success, and I have no doubt we’ll uncover some inspiring stories.”
Get Involved
With free entry and a wide range of categories, the Stirlingshire Business Awards offer a valuable opportunity for businesses to gain recognition, raise their profile and celebrate their achievements.
Entrants are encouraged to submit their nominations at https://stirlingbusinessawards.co.uk/ before the 31 May 2026 deadline and take part in what promises to become a highlight of the local business calendar.
