The search is on for Tendring’s most inspiring and innovative businesses as nominations open for the Tendring4Growth Business Awards 2026.

Now in their fifth year, the awards have become a highlight of the local business calendar and will once again form part of the Tendring4Growth Business Fortnight, delivered by Tendring District Council’s (TDC) flagship economic development programme.

This year’s winners will be revealed at a glittering awards ceremony at Clacton’s Princes Theatre in October, where finalists will come together for an evening celebrating excellence, ambition and success across the district’s business community.

Organised by TDC and made possible through the generous support of local sponsors, the awards recognise the vital role businesses and organisations play in driving growth, innovation and opportunity across Tendring.

Nominations are open until Sunday, 21 June, after which an independent judging panel will shortlist entries across nine award categories.

Shortlisted businesses and organisations will be invited to a prestigious celebration evening at the Princes Theatre on Thursday, 8 October.

Councillor Ivan Henderson, TDC Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Economic Growth, Regeneration and Tourism, encouraged residents, employees and business owners to put forward those who deserve to be recognised.

“Tendring is home to a diverse and ambitious business community, and these awards give us the opportunity to recognise those who go above and beyond,” he said.

“The standard of nominations we receive each year is always exceptionally high, and with hundreds of entries submitted last year, I’m excited to see the fantastic businesses that will come forward in 2026.

“The Tendring4Growth Business Awards are about celebrating innovation, resilience and the people behind our local success stories. They help shine a spotlight on those who make Tendring a great place to work, invest and do business.

“The Tendring4Growth team is delighted to once again host an evening that brings our business community together to celebrate achievement, complete with great food and local entertainment.

“If you know a business or individual who deserves recognition – or if you are proud of what your own organisation has achieved – I would encourage you to submit a nomination before 21 June.”

This year’s award categories are:

• Creative Excellence & Visitor Experience- sponsored by Esign
• Excellence in Innovation - sponsored by KAT Marketing
• Health, Beauty & Wellbeing Champion
• Micro-business of the Year – sponsored by Black Rock Restaurant
• Outstanding Consultancy Services
• Outstanding Hospitality & Service – sponsored by VGM Facilities Management
• People’s Choice Award – sponsored by Surya Hotels
• Social Value Champion – sponsored by Rose Builders
• Team of the Year – sponsored by Pickering Group
• Tendring Business of the Year
• Young Businessperson of the Year – sponsored by Colchester Institute

If you are interested in sponsoring one of the remaining award categories, please contact the Tendring4Growth team at tendring4growth@tendringdc.gov.uk.

To make a nomination, and for the full eligibility criteria for each award, go to https://tendring4growth.com/awards.