The Hartlepool Business Forum has urged the local business community to “get involved” after confirming that the prestigious Hartlepool Business Awards will return on Thursday, October 15, 2026.
The town’s premier celebration of commerce and industry will be held at the beautiful Hardwick Hall, Sedgefield, bringing together the region’s most innovative, hardworking and successful businesses for a night of recognition and networking.
Organisers are thrilled to confirm that Hartlepool-based NE Security has agreed to become Platinum Sponsor of the event, while X-energy, a global leader in nuclear reactor and fuel design, will be a Gold Sponsor for the second consecutive year.
Their support marks a significant vote of confidence in the Hartlepool business community and the importance of this annual showcase.
Simon Corbett, Chair of the Hartlepool Business Forum, emphasised that while the event is a celebration, it is also a vital platform for local growth and collaboration.
“The Hartlepool Business Awards is the most significant date on our local economic calendar,” said Simon, who is also CEO of Orangebox Training Solutions.
“It is a night where we pause to celebrate the grit, innovation and excellence that define our town’s business landscape.
“Having a North-East company like NE Security and a global company like X-energy return is a testament to the calibre of this event and the incredible talent we have right here in Hartlepool.
“We are now calling on the wider business community to get behind the awards. Sponsoring a category or a portion of the evening displays a public commitment to the future of our town while also raising awareness of your brand.
“It is an opportunity to showcase your business to the region’s key decision-makers and support the next generation of success stories.”
The 2026 awards will look to build on the momentum of last year’s packed-out ceremony, which saw Cicor take home the Best Large Business trophy and GLC Projects named Best Small Business.
Other notable winners included Wallis & Co (Best Leisure or Hospitality), Alan Harrison of Mystery Game Days (Young Entrepreneur) and Jason Anderson of Radio Hartlepool and Hartlepool Ambulance charity, who received the prestigious Peter Olsen Award for his outstanding service to the community.
Honours will be contested again across a wide range of categories and the application window officially opens on Wednesday, April 1, 2026. Tickets will go on sale at £65+VAT (Tables of 10 available for £650+VAT) on Friday, May 1, 2026.
Simon said: “I urge every business owner and manager to keep a close eye on the calendar. Don’t miss out. The nomination window opens on April 1, and we want to see a diverse range of entries – from the sole traders making a difference to the large-scale employers putting Hartlepool on the international map. Start thinking about your success stories now.”
A variety of sponsorship packages remain available, offering businesses a unique chance to align their brand with excellence and community pride.
*To discuss sponsorship or to receive more information about the awards, please contact the team on 01429 363150 or hba@hartlepool.gov.uk. Check out the website www.hartlepoolbusinessforum.co.uk/hartlepool-business-awards and social media for updates.
