The Inspirational Leader of the Year Award recognises and rewards an individual who has demonstrated exceptional leadership skills and inspired their team to achieve outstanding results. This award celebrates leaders who have motivated, mentored, and guided their team to success, and have created a positive and supportive work environment. It honours those who have set a high standard of excellence, led by example, and inspired others to follow their lead.

The Rising Star of the Year Award celebrates an individual who shines brightly, even in the early stages of their career. This award recognises those who have shown exceptional promise, ambition, and growth within their role, industry, or organisation. It highlights those who are not only developing their own skills and knowledge but are also making a real impact and inspiring those around them. Whether through personal drive, innovation, or leadership potential, this award honours the rising talents of today who are destined to shape the future of business.

The Spirit of Sheffield Award recognises initiatives that have significantly impacted the city’s reputation on regional, national, and global levels. This award honours individuals and organisations who have genuinely contributed to Sheffield’s growth and success, embodying innovation, entrepreneurship, and community spirit. It celebrates initiatives from the arts, music, film, creative, and marketing industries that have pushed boundaries, challenged conventions, and left a lasting impression on their audience.

The Environmental Impact Award recognises and rewards projects that have demonstrated a strong commitment to managing environmental impact. This award celebrates initiatives that have contributed to reducing carbon footprint, preserving natural resources, and promoting sustainable practices. It honours organisations that have made significant strides towards a more environmentally responsible future and acknowledges their dedication to protecting our planet for future generations.

The Community Impact Award recognises projects that have made a positive impact on the lives of people who live, work, and visit Sheffield. This award celebrates initiatives that have helped to enhance the local community, promoting social inclusion and improving the quality of life for all. It honours individuals and organisations that have made a real difference and contributed to the betterment of Sheffield’s society.

The Outstanding Contribution to Employee Health and Wellbeing Award recognises employers who have implemented successful initiatives and projects to support the physical, mental, and financial health of their employees. This award celebrates the dedication and commitment of organisations that have prioritised the wellbeing of their workforce and highlights the positive impact this has on their productivity, retention, and job satisfaction.

The Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Champion recognises initiatives that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion in all aspects of an organisation. This award celebrates organisations/teams or individuals that have demonstrated a strong commitment to sustainability, social justice, and human rights, and have worked to create a culture that celebrates diversity and encourages inclusivity. It honours those who have made significant strides towards a more equal, diverse, and inclusive society, from strategy through to delivery.

The Outstanding Contribution to Workforce Development Award recognises and rewards companies that have demonstrated exceptional commitment and dedication to developing a professional development and learning culture within their business. This award celebrates organisations that have invested in the skills, knowledge, and abilities of their workforce, and have made significant contributions to the professional growth and advancement of their employees. It honours those who have created a supportive, nurturing, and empowering environment for their staff.

This award recognises and celebrates the achievements of early-stage businesses that are bold, ambitious, and driven by innovation. It honours young companies laying the foundations for future success – whether developing a new product, disrupting an industry, or solving real-world problems in exciting ways. Open to start-ups typically in their first two years of trading, including spinouts and ventures at concept, development, or launch stage.

The Brand Campaign of the Year Award is designed to recognise and reward the best brand campaigns that have demonstrated exceptional creativity, innovation, and impact in establishing a strong brand identity, raising brand awareness, and telling a compelling brand story across the city of Sheffield. This award celebrates the brands that have succeeded in resonating with their target audience, generating buzz, and creating a lasting impression. The campaign could be in any medium, from traditional print and broadcast media to digital and social media, and it should have demonstrated a clear understanding of the target audience’s needs and preferences.

The International Trade Champion showcases companies that have excelled in global import and export operations while contributing significantly to the Sheffield economy. This award recognises the outstanding achievements of organisations that have expanded their business horizons, forged international partnerships, and demonstrated exceptional expertise in cross-border trade. It honours the vital role that international trade plays in Sheffield’s economic growth and success.

This award recognises and celebrates outstanding small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) that have demonstrated exceptional performance, innovation, and impact. Open to micro, small, and medium-sized businesses across all sectors, the award honours those that have achieved sustained growth, excelled in their field, and made a meaningful contribution to their local community and economy.

This award recognises outstanding large businesses that are driving sustained economic impact through strategic growth, innovation, and responsible leadership. Open to UK-based organisations with more than 250 employees and a turnover exceeding £44 million, this award celebrates those operating at scale who continue to evolve, adapt, and deliver long-term value. The category highlights companies that invest in their people, foster innovation, and demonstrate a deep commitment to customer excellence, social responsibility, and community impact.

The Leading through Innovation Award recognises and rewards projects in the region that have created new products or improved existing ones to meet the needs of their users. This award celebrates organisations that have demonstrated exceptional innovation, creativity, and problem-solving skills, and have made significant contributions to their industries. It honours those who have pushed boundaries, challenged conventions, and paved the way for a brighter future.

The Collaboration Excellence Award celebrates successful partnerships between two or more organisations that have resulted in a positive impact on the local region. This award acknowledges the importance of collaboration in achieving common goals, creating a better community for all, and evidencing excellence in team collaboration while achieving the desired outcome.

The Chamber President’s Special Recognition Award is a prestigious award selected and presented by the current Sheffield Chamber of Commerce President. This award acknowledges an individual, project, or organisation that holds a special place in the heart of the President and has made a significant impact in Sheffield. The President recognises the contributions made by the recipient, celebrating their dedication to the community and their commitment to making Sheffield a better place to live, work and do business.

The People’s Choice Award is voted for live on the night by attendees of the Sheffield Business Awards! This award recognises the finalist who has truly resonated with the Sheffield business community – someone whose story, achievements, or impact has left a lasting impression. Chosen by the people, for the people – this is the celebration of connection, admiration, and shared pride.