Havering Small Business Awards 2026 to Open for Nominations on 23 March

Nominations for the 2026 Havering Small Business Awards will officially open on Monday 23 March, giving residents, customers and entrepreneurs across the borough the chance to recognise the local businesses that make a difference in their communities. The initiative, organised by Havering Council, celebrates the vital contribution of small and independent enterprises to the local economy and the everyday life of the borough.

The annual awards highlight the creativity, dedication and resilience shown by businesses operating throughout London Borough of Havering. Members of the public as well as business owners themselves will be able to submit nominations once the process opens, helping to spotlight companies that provide outstanding service, innovation and community value.

A range of categories will be available for nomination, covering sectors and achievements across the borough’s business community. These include awards recognising areas such as best shopfront and best sustainable business, among others designed to showcase the diversity and strength of local enterprise. Full details about categories and how to enter will be published on the council’s website when nominations open.

The nomination period will remain open for five weeks, running from 23 March until Friday 1 May 2026. During that time residents are encouraged to nominate their favourite businesses, while business owners can also put themselves forward in recognition of their achievements and service to the community.

Leader of Havering Council, Ray Morgon, welcomed the return of the awards and encouraged widespread participation. He said the scheme offers “a fantastic opportunity to recognise the creativity, dedication and resilience of Havering’s small businesses,” adding that residents and customers are invited to take part and celebrate the businesses that form the heartbeat of the local economy.

The Havering Small Business Awards have become a key annual event for the borough’s business community, bringing together entrepreneurs, residents and community leaders to celebrate local success. Previous ceremonies have recognised a wide range of businesses, from independent retailers and hospitality venues to service providers and social enterprises, highlighting the important role small businesses play in supporting jobs, innovation and neighbourhood identity across Havering.

Once nominations close, shortlisted finalists will typically be selected and invited to an awards event later in the year where winners are announced, continuing the tradition of recognising the achievements of the borough’s most valued small businesses.

Source: https://www.havering.gov.uk/news/article/1733/havering-small-business-awards-to-open-for-nominations-on-23-march-2026