Nominations for the 2026 Britain’s Energy Coast Business Cluster Business Awards are now open.
The awards, a celebration of the innovation, resilience and collaboration that define the county’s energy sector supply chain, are open to organisations of all sizes and sectors in BECBC’s membership.
There are 13 categories up for grabs, including sustainability, growth, collaboration, and entrepreneurship.
They also celebrate outstanding individuals from both micro and larger business.
All shortlisted entrants receive in-person visits from the judging panel. This is a hallmark of the BECBC process, ensuring each finalist is recognised not only for their award entry, but for the impact they create.
The awards ceremony will be held at Energus, at Lillyhall, near Workington, on Thursday November 19.
Dianne Richardson, CEO of BECBC, said: “Every year the awards bring our members together for a much-deserved celebration of their hard work.
“It’s always fantastic to see so many members celebrating the achievements that make Cumbria such a powerhouse of innovation and collaboration.
“As a network of organisations across all tiers of the energy supply chain, we are dedicated to delivering success and growth for the county.”
Last year’s awards showcased the people and businesses shaping the future of the energy sector.
With finalists representing businesses of all sizes – from cutting-edge SMEs to long-established employers – the night showcased the diversity of talent that underpins Cumbria’s energy ecosystem.
Sellafield Ltd has been confirmed as event sponsor for the 2026 BECBC Business Awards, reinforcing its longstanding support for the region’s business community.
The awards serve as a reminder of the vital relationship between the site and its supply chain partners. This year Sellafield is sponsoring the Business of the Year category, which is open to any size of business.
The Business Person of the Year category will recognise a business owner or employee with outstanding business acumen and excellent leadership skills.
The Rising Star award aims to recognise someone near the start of their career, regardless of age, who has already made a substantial contribution to their employer.
Last year saw the introduction of a new award – the John Grainger Outstanding Contribution Award – to mark John’s retirement from and long-standing involvement in BECBC.
Recognising those who have made an outstanding, long-term volunteer contribution to BECBC membership, the award returns this year, sponsored by Nuclear Waste Services.
This year’s awards also carry a philanthropic element.
Last year’s ceremony raised £4,535 for the Great North Air Ambulance Service. This year they will raise money for BECBC’s charity of the year, Always Another Way.
This year’s categories are:
- Business of the Year
- Business Person of the Year
- Rising Star
- BECBC Ambassador of the Year
- John Grainger Outstanding Contribution Award
- Empowering Next Generation
- Partnership
- Social Value
- Performance Culture
- Environmental Sustainability
- Micro Business
- Growing Business
- Charity of the Year
Nominations across all categories are now live at https://www.becbusinesscluster.co.uk/awards-2026 and will remain open until Monday July 6.
