Tendring4Growth Business Awards 2026

The Tendring4Growth Business Awards, supported by Colbea, will return on 8 October 2026 at the Princes Theatre, Clacton‑on‑Sea, celebrating the success, ambition and contribution of businesses across the Tendring district.

Now in their fifth year, the awards have become a highlight of the local business calendar, recognising the talent, creativity and resilience demonstrated by organisations and individuals operating in Tendring. From new start‑ups and micro‑businesses to established employers and community‑focused organisations, the awards showcase the breadth of enterprise helping to make Tendring a vibrant place to do business.

We are looking forward to receiving a new host of nominations that highlight what local businesses and businesspeople have achieved over the past year. Read on to see what awards are on offer this year.

Creative Excellence & Visitor Experience

Sponsored by Esign

This award celebrates businesses that bring creativity, culture and tourism to Tendring. It includes visitor attractions, creative industries and businesses delivering memorable customer or visitor experiences through originality and fresh thinking.

Judges will be looking for:

• Creativity and original ideas in products, services or delivery
• Positive impact on customers, visitors or the local community
• High‑quality visitor or customer experiences
• A clear creative vision or identity
• Contribution to Tendring’s cultural or tourism offer

Nominations: Opening Monday 11 May 2026

Excellence in Innovation

Sponsored by KAT Marketing

Recognising a business or individual that has embraced innovation to create positive change, whether through new products, services, processes or ways of working.

Judges will be looking for:

• A clear explanation of what makes the business innovative
• Evidence of benefits achieved through innovation
• Confidence in trialling new ideas or approaches
• How innovation supports future growth

Nominations: Opening Monday 11 May 2026

Health, Beauty & Wellbeing Champion

To sponsor this award, please contact tendring4growth@tendringdc.gov.uk

This award recognises businesses that help people feel healthier, happier and more confident, through high‑quality services and genuine care for clients and staff.

Judges will be looking for:

• Clear benefits to physical, mental or emotional wellbeing
• Professional, high‑quality service delivery
• Personalised support and excellent customer care
• Positive impact on the wider community

Nominations: Opening Monday 11 May 2026

Micro‑Business of the Year

Sponsored by Black Rock Restaurant

Celebrating Tendring’s micro‑business community, including sole traders and businesses with five or fewer employees, across all sectors.

Judges will be looking for:

• A business with five or fewer employees
• What sets the business apart from others in its field
• Evidence of consistently high standards
• Commitment to developing skills and maintaining quality

Nominations: Opening Monday 11 May 2026

Outstanding Consultancy Services

To sponsor this award, please contact tendring4growth@tendringdc.gov.uk

This award recognises excellence within the professional and consultancy services sector, celebrating expertise, integrity and meaningful client relationships.

Judges will be looking for:

• Exceptional customer service and client outcomes
• Evidence of professional expertise and high standards
• Ethical and reliable business practices
• Contribution to the local economy

Nominations: Opening Monday 11 May 2026

Outstanding Hospitality & Service

Sponsored by VGM Facilities Management

Celebrating hospitality, food and service‑led businesses that deliver exceptional customer experiences and play an active role in their local community.

Judges will be looking for:

• Consistently high‑quality customer experience
• Creativity and innovation within the business
• Evidence of going above and beyond
• Contribution to the local community

Nominations: Opening Monday 11 May 2026

People’s Choice Award

Sponsored by Surya Hotels

All shortlisted businesses will be eligible to participate in the People’s Choice Award where the winner will be chosen by public vote! Public voting will open after the main nominations close.

Social Value Champion

Sponsored by ROSE Builders

Recognising a business that demonstrates strong social, environmental or economic value through its work, culture or community engagement.

Judges will be looking for:

• Initiatives that support community wellbeing
• Evidence of social value embedded in day‑to‑day operations
• Support for local people, suppliers or projects
• Measurable positive impact in Tendring

Nominations: Opening Monday 11 May 2026

Team of the Year

Sponsored by Pickering Group

Recognising a team that consistently delivers outstanding service while demonstrating strong values, collaboration and continuous improvement.

Judges will be looking for:

• Exceptional service delivery
• Strong teamwork and positive culture
• Examples of going above and beyond
• Continuous improvement and measurable impact

Nominations: Opening Monday 11 May 2026

Tendring Business of the Year

Sponsored by Colbea

This award will be selected exclusively by the Headline Sponsor from the shortlisted finalists and is not open to public nomination.

This prestigious award recognises a business that represents the very best of enterprise in Tendring.

The Headline Sponsor will consider:

• Stand‑out achievements within the sector
• Strong performance or growth over the past year
• Effective leadership and culture
• Clear vision for the future

Young Businessperson of the Year

Sponsored by Colchester Institute

Awarded to an individual aged 30 or under who is making an outstanding contribution to a Tendring‑based business.

Judges will be looking for:

• Entrepreneurial drive or exceptional impact within a business
• Passion for growth, products or services
• Evidence of ambition and future potential

Nominations: Opening Monday 11 May 2026