Thinking of entering the Lloyds British Business Excellence Awards, the UK’s largest business awards programme? Below are answers to the most common questions about who can enter, how to enter, what it costs, how entries are judged and what happens next. If your question is not covered, the team is always happy to help.
Eligibility and who can enter
Who can enter the British Business Excellence Awards?
The awards are open to businesses of all sizes and sectors based in the UK, from sole traders and small firms through to mid-market and established companies. With 19 categories, there is a place for almost every business. You can explore the 2026 categories to find the one that fits you best.
Do I need to bank with Lloyds or be a Lloyds member to enter?
No. You do not need to bank with Lloyds or be a Lloyds member to enter. The awards are open to all UK-based businesses.
Can start-ups and new businesses enter?
Yes. Several categories suit younger and high-growth businesses, and judges score against criteria appropriate to each category. If you are still getting established, you can also find wider help through the government’s business finance and support hub.
What counts as a small business or an SME?
In the UK, businesses are generally grouped by size as micro (up to 10 employees), small (up to 50 employees) and medium (up to 250 employees), with turnover and balance sheet thresholds set out in the government’s company size guidance. Each award category sets its own eligibility, so always check the specific category page before you enter.
Is the programme only for businesses in London or England?
No. The awards celebrate businesses from every part of the UK. Where you are based does not affect your eligibility.
How to enter
How do I enter?
All entries are made online. Choose the category that fits your business best, then complete your entry against its criteria. Start by browsing the 2026 categories.
Which category should I enter?
Read the description and judging criteria for each category, and pick the one where your business fits the definition and you can best evidence the things that category rewards. It is usually better to enter one category brilliantly than several thinly.
Can I enter more than one category?
Yes. You are welcome to enter multiple categories, and judges are chosen for their specialism in each one. Make sure each entry tells a distinct, well-evidenced story rather than repeating the same submission.
When do entries close?
Entries close at midnight on Friday 3 July 2026. Late entries are not accepted, so aim to submit with time to spare.
When will I receive confirmation of my entry?
As soon as you submit, you will receive an email confirming that your entry has been put through to the judges.
Is there anyone who can help me with my entry?
Yes. We work with a number of awards agencies who can help you write your entry. Contact the team and we can share a list of people ready to help.
How entries are judged
How are entries judged?
Judging happens in two stages. First, every written entry is scored against the category’s published, weighted criteria, and the highest scorers are shortlisted as finalists. Finalists are then invited to London to present in person to a panel of four judges, with 45 minutes split into around 20 minutes to present and add colour to the written entry and about 25 minutes of questions and answers.
Who are the judges?
Entries are assessed by an independent panel of senior business leaders and experts, selected for their specialism in each category. This independence is what gives a BBEA win its credibility.
Will my information be kept confidential?
Yes. All company information is kept strictly confidential, and all judges are required to sign non-disclosure agreements.
When will the shortlist and finalists be announced?
The shortlist is announced in mid-July. Register your interest to receive all the latest updates and announcements.
Costs and what is included
What does it cost to enter?
Early bird entry is £299 plus VAT before Thursday 30 April. You can start your entry, secure the early bird rate, and complete it up until the deadline. After the early bird date, entry is £349 plus VAT.
What is included in the entry fee?
All entrants are invited to the exclusive Lloyds British Business Excellence networking event with VIPs, sponsors and judges. Finalists also receive an invitation to the finalists’ drinks reception, one complimentary place at the November awards ceremony, and inclusion in the dedicated finalists’ supplement produced with iNews and published in national print in September.
Can I get a refund if I change my mind?
Once your entry is submitted and paid, it is put through to the judges. If you spot a mistake, the team can help you log back in to refine your entry. Once the judges have reviewed an entry, refunds are not available.
After you enter, tickets and the ceremony
What happens if I am shortlisted as a finalist?
Finalists are invited to present to the judging panel in person, attend the finalists’ drinks reception, receive a complimentary place at the ceremony, and feature in the finalists’ PR and supplement. It is a significant mark of quality even before the winners are announced.
When and where is the awards ceremony?
The ceremony takes place on Tuesday 10 November 2026 at the Grosvenor House Hotel, Park Lane, London. It is a celebration of the best of British business, with entertainment, a keynote, and the chance to network with business leaders and investors.
Can I get a ticket even if I am not shortlisted?
Yes. Individual tickets and table packages are available via the website. Register your interest to be notified when they go on sale.
Who can I contact with other questions?
Please contact the team with any questions and we will be happy to help.
