New categories for 2026 Goole and Howdenshire Business Excellence Awards - entries now open!

THE 15th annual Goole and Howdenshire Business Excellence Awards in association with the Hull & Humber Chamber of Commerce officially opens for entry on 1st November 2025, with two brand new categories added for 2026.

The organising committee — made up of volunteers from the local business community — is calling on businesses of all sizes and sectors to celebrate their success by entering this year’s awards! The quick and easy entry form makes it simple to showcase your achievements and share what makes your business shine.

For 2026, there are 13 exciting categories to choose from, including two brand-new additions: the Pioneering Business Award and the Unsung Hero Award. As always, an independent judging panel will select the Overall Business of the Year, and the organising committee will proudly honour an outstanding individual with the Tim Richardson Lifetime Achievement Award.

The categories for businesses to enter are as follows:

Long-standing Business of the Year (sponsored by Invest East Yorkshire): This category is aimed at businesses established on or before 1 January 2016.

Family Business of the Year (sponsored by Jos Richardson & Sons): This category is aimed at businesses that are, or have been, run by several members of, or successive generations of, the same family.

New Business of the Year Award (sponsored by Danbrit): For new businesses that were launched on or after 1 January 2024.

Small Business of the Year Award (sponsored by Chronicle Publications): For businesses that employ ten people or less.

Large Business of the Year Award (sponsored by Link Agency): For businesses that employ more than ten people.

Hugh Walton Contribution to the Community Award (sponsored by H Walton Ltd): For businesses that go ‘above and beyond’ to help and support the local community.

Charity of the Year Award (sponsor to be confirmed): This category is aimed at non-commercial organisations from the charity, voluntary or community sector that make a tangible difference to the local community through their activities.

Environmentally Friendly Business of the Year Award (sponsor to be confirmed): This category is aimed at businesses that work hard to minimise the impact of their activities on the environment.

Marketing Excellence Award (sponsored by Grotech): For businesses that have developed and implemented an innovative marketing strategy that’s had a measurable impact. 

Self Employed/Micro Business of the Year Award (sponsored by Sowerby LLP): This category is for the self-employed, including sole traders and freelancers.

Team of the Year Award (sponsored by Fisher Security): This award celebrates the many ways in which staff pull together to create the best outcomes for their company, and for one another.

Pioneering Business of the Year Award (sponsored by For Entrepreneurs Only - FEO):  This award is to recognise local businesses that drive progress through innovation, forward-thinking strategies and leadership in shaping the future of their industry and the regions economic growth.

Unsung Hero Award (sponsored by Howden Rotary Club):  This award recognises an individual who consistently goes above and beyond, making a significant difference without seeking recognition.  Their dedication, integrity and quiet commitment contribute immensely to the success of the business or community. 

Chair of the organising committee, local businessman Garrey Haase, said: “Each year, we like to keep the awards fresh and relevant by reviewing our categories — and this year is no exception. The committee felt it was important to shine a spotlight on some of the area’s most pioneering businesses, celebrating their innovation, ambition, and drive for success. We also wanted to recognise the Unsung Heroes — those incredible individuals who may not always get the recognition they deserve, but whose dedication makes a real difference to their business or community.”

Garrey added: “We know there are so many inspiring, successful businesses across Goole, Howden, and the surrounding villages, and we want to hear their stories! This is your chance to showcase your achievements and be celebrated for your hard work. The entry form is quick and easy to complete — so why not take a few minutes to tell us your story? We’d love to celebrate your success!”

Entries are open now! Businesses can find out more and submit their entry by visiting www.goolebusinessawards.co.uk. All entries must be received by midnight on 31 January 2026, so don’t miss your chance to be part of this exciting celebration of local success.

The winners will be revealed at the 2026 Goole & Howdenshire Business Excellence Awards Dinner, taking place on Friday 10 April 2026 at Goole Academy — a highlight of the local business calendar and a night not to be missed!