Nominations are open for the 2026 edition of the Black British Business Awards (BBBAwards). This marks the 13th year of a program dedicated to recognizing exceptional black British talent in the UK business and entrepreneurial landscape.
With almost 500 professionals and entrepreneurs recognized since its inception, the awards continue to serve as an outstanding platform to celebrate leadership, innovation and impact across the UK economy. Organizers encourage companies to showcase visionary leaders, high-performing executives and entrepreneurial achievers whose work is shaping industries nationwide.
This year’s program expands to nine categories, offering broader recognition than previous years. The STEM category has been split into Science & Engineering and Technology, while Consumer & Luxury now includes Fashion & Beauty, FMCG and Retail & Hospitality. These include arts and media, entrepreneurs, financial services and professional services.
A total of one Black British Businessman of the Year will be selected from the category winners, joining a distinguished alumni including executives from S&P Global, Microsoft and Netflix.
The 2026 theme, #SHINE, is designed to celebrate visibility, brilliance and measurable impact. The chairman and managing founder of BBBAwards, Dr. Sophie Chandauka MBE, said the theme reflected the importance of authentic growth and collective progress.
“#SHINE recognizes those who create pathways for others, drive measurable change, and lead innovation across industries and communities,” she said. “When individuals have a platform to authentically grow and shine, collective success follows.”
The nomination deadline is Wednesday, March 11th. The finalists and winners will be celebrated at a ceremony at Hilton Park Lane on October 9th. The event is expected to attract senior business leaders and influencers from across the UK economy.
Sponsors for 2026 include Baker McKenzie, Morgan Stanley, Ralph Lauren and S&P Global.
Last year, Yvonne Kunihira-Davidson, managing director and EMEA head of tax solutions at S&P Global Market Intelligence, was named Black British Business Person of the Year. The 2025 Impact Award went to Anne Mensah, vice president of UK content at Netflix, while the inaugural Icon Award honored Kanya King CBE, founder and managing director of MOBO Group.
Organizers say the awards continue to be an important forum for recognizing excellence and ensuring black British professionals receive the visibility and recognition their achievements deserve.
