The Irish News has unveiled its newly rebranded Business Excellence Awards, marking the start of a new era for one of the north’s longest running business accolades.
The launch took place on Thursday evening at mrDeanes in Belfast, where sponsors, partners and invited guests gathered for a reception to mark the start of this year’s awards cycle.
Formerly known as the Workplace and Employment Awards, the initiative has been refreshed and relaunched as the Irish News Business Excellence Awards, reflecting a broader focus on recognising business performance, leadership, innovation and impact across the island of Ireland.
The rebrand coincides with a significant milestone, as 2026 marks 20 years since the awards were first launched, growing over that time into one of the most respected fixtures in the north’s business calendar.
Entries for the 2026 awards open today (March 6th), with organisations across all sectors encouraged to take part. The awards are free to enter and open to businesses and individuals operating anywhere on the island of Ireland.
Gary McDonald, business editor of The Irish News, said:
“Over the past two decades these awards have grown into one of the most respected fixtures in the north’s business calendar, recognising organisations that invest in their people and drive progress within their industries.
“As we mark the 20th year, the new Business Excellence Awards provide a broader platform to celebrate the businesses and leaders shaping the future of our economy.”
A total of 16 categories will be contested this year, recognising excellence across areas including business performance, leadership, innovation and workplace culture.
The awards will culminate in a black-tie ceremony at Titanic Belfast on Thursday, June 4th, when winners will be announced in front of an audience of more than 500 business leaders and decision makers. The ceremony will once again be hosted by comedian Neil Delamere.
This year’s awards are supported by a number of leading business partners. Vickerstock and Carson McDowell join as gold sponsors, while silver sponsors include Baker Tilly Mooney Moore, Open College Network NI, Finnebrogue, Incline Space, Mackle Petfoods, NI Chamber, NIJobs and Options Technology. Diageo and Heron Bros return as drinks sponsors, with Titanic Belfast once again the venue partner for the awards ceremony.
Businesses interested in entering can find further details at irishnews.com/bea, with the entry deadline set for April 17th and judging scheduled to take place on April 28th.