The Tendring4Growth Business Awards will be returning for 2026, and Tendring District Council (TDC) has today confirmed the first sponsors who will help celebrate the achievements, creativity and dedication of the district’s brilliant businesses.

Now in its fifth year, the ceremony will once again take place during the T4G Business Fortnight, run by Tendring4Growth — TDC’s flagship initiative for economic development — later this year.

The awards will honour the innovation, dedication and success of outstanding local businesses, with finalists invited to a glamorous evening of celebration at Clacton’s Princes Theatre in October.

Several previous sponsors have already confirmed their involvement for 2026, including business support service Colbea, which will return as this year’s headline sponsor.

Esign Media will sponsor the Creative Excellence and Visitor Experience award, with KAT Marketing supporting the Excellence in Innovation category, VGM Facilities Management sponsoring Outstanding Hospitality and Service, Rose Builders sponsoring the Social Value Champion award, and Colchester Institute supporting the Young Businessperson of the Year category. Surya Hotels is sponsoring the People's Choice Award while Pickering Group is sponsoring the Team of the Year category.

Councillor Ivan Henderson, TDC’s Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Economic Growth, Regeneration and Tourism, said the strong early response from sponsors reflects the growing prestige of the Tendring4Growth Business Awards.

“Local businesses continue to play a vital role in driving innovation, supporting jobs and strengthening our economy,” he said.

“We are delighted to see such valued partners returning to support this year’s awards, and we look forward to welcoming even more sponsors in the days ahead.

“We’re keen to recognise the outstanding contributions of the businesses and organisations that make Tendring a vibrant place to work and do business, and the Tendring4Growth Business Awards help us shine a light on our exceptional business community.

“I would encourage any organisation that would like to be part of celebrating Tendring’s success to get in touch and explore the remaining sponsorship opportunities.”

The full awards programme, nomination details and key dates will be released soon. Businesses and residents are encouraged to stay tuned for updates via the Tendring4Growth e-bulletin and social media channels.

Further sponsorship opportunities remain available across a number of categories.

To find out what sponsorship opportunities are still available, please email tendring4growth@tendringdc.gov.uk.