Awards event to honour leading businesswomen

The North East’s female commercial sector leaders are set to be honoured at a special ceremony. 

The North East Chamber of Commerce has launched its 2026 Inspiring Women in Business Awards.

The spectacle celebrates the outstanding women, businesses and role models shaping the North East’s economy.

Recognising women making a difference in their organisations, industries and communities, the awards also celebrate employers creating inclusive workplaces.

Open exclusively to Chamber members, the event showcases talent from start-ups and small businesses to larger employers and internationally trading organisations.

Awards celebrate excellence across 12 categories, recognising inspiring business leaders, entrepreneurs, apprentices, rising stars, community champions and employers committed to supporting and developing women in business.

Ashley Carney, North East Chamber of Commerce events and awards manager, said: “The Inspiring Women in Business Awards are about recognising the incredible women who are driving change, breaking down barriers and making a lasting impact across our region.

“The North East is home to exceptional talent, and these awards provide an opportunity to celebrate the people and organisations championing equality, inspiring future generations and helping our business community grow stronger.”

Alice Andreasen, chief corporate affairs officer at event headline sponsor Newcastle International Airport, added: “Championing women isn’t something we do for a moment or an event; it’s something we are deeply committed to every single day.

“We know that when women feel supported, they thrive – and when women thrive, businesses and our whole region benefits.

“These awards celebrate stories that should be heard, recognise those making a real difference and encourage others to step forward, believe in themselves and aim even higher.”

Entries are free and must be submitted electronically via the Chamber’s awards platform by noon on September 4. 

Shortlists will be announced later in September, with winners revealed at a ceremony in Newcastle Civic Centre on November 27.

For more information, visit www.necc.co.uk/awards

Want your business, product or service to be seen regionally and nationally? Bdaily helps you get your story in front of the right audience, every day. Find out how Bdaily can help →

Join more than 55,000 subscribers by signing up to our daily bulletin each morning here.