Best Businesswomen Awards 2026 Finalists Announced
Celebrating the women driving business forwards
The finalists for the Best Businesswomen Awards 2026 have been announced, recognising an exceptional group of female entrepreneurs, business leaders and professionals who are making a significant impact across the UK.
Against a backdrop of economic uncertainty, rapid technological change and evolving ways of working, this year's finalists have demonstrated outstanding resilience, innovation and determination. They have embraced new opportunities, overcome challenges and continued to grow successful businesses while leading with purpose, creativity and vision.
The judging panel praised the exceptional quality of entries received across all categories, highlighting the remarkable achievements of women who are not only delivering commercial success but also creating positive change within their industries, communities and the wider economy.
Now in their 12th year, The Best Businesswomen Awards were established to recognise and celebrate the achievements of women across all industries. These awards celebrate the achievements of women who are not only building successful businesses but also breaking down barriers, creating impact, and inspiring others to follow.
Local entrepreneur Elizabeth Dubois, founder of Satori Intelligence, has been shortlisted as a finalist in the Best New Business category. “It's genuinely great to see the work I've put into building this business recognised in this way. My clients are happy, and being shortlisted as a finalist confirms that my approach, taking the time to be accurate, considered and thoughtful in our research, and always putting the client first, is working the way I hoped it would”.
Debbie Gilbert, founder of the Best Businesswomen Awards, said:
"Every year I'm inspired by the incredible women who enter these awards, and this year has been no exception. The standard of entries has been outstanding, making the judging process more challenging than ever. These finalists represent the very best of female entrepreneurship. They are resilient, ambitious, innovative and determined to succeed, despite the many challenges businesses continue to face. They prove that female entrepreneurs are a powerful force in the UK economy. We are delighted to celebrate their achievements and look forward to recognising them at our awards ceremony”.
The finalists will come together at the Best Businesswomen Awards Gala Final in October in Daventry, chosen for its central UK location, where gold and silver winners will be announced across a wide range of business categories. This event will be celebrating excellence, innovation and leadership in women-led businesses throughout the UK.
Published on 17 August 2026