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2025 Entrepreneurial Awards

Get ready to raise your glass to the entrepreneurs who are rewriting the rules — the trailblazers, pioneers and innovators of the North East.

Since 2004, our Entrepreneurial Awards have recognised, celebrated and illuminated the North East's best business talent with finalists representing every stage of the business lifecycle. Our award categories include One to Watch, Impact Award, Caroline Theobald Award, Entrepreneur of the Year and Lifetime Achievement. View full award criteria.

This year’s winners will be announced at our Awards Dinner on Thursday 18th September which is open to everyone in the North East business community. It's an evening packed with celebration, leaving you with memories as unforgettable as the region's entrepreneurial spirit.

We hope to see you there! 

Nominations and applications are now CLOSED.


Nominations and applications are now closed and will reopen in 2026. Our 2025 finalists will be announced soon so be sure to check back here for updates.

Plus, join us for Our Official After-Party at PILGRIM!

Thursday is the new Friday and this is the after-party you won’t want to miss! This year, our award celebrations will continue at PILGRIM as they open their famous doors for our official after-party. From 10pm until late, winners, nominees, partners, guests and crew will join us for cocktails, award toasts, staff drinks or client hospitality, all sound-tracked by top DJs.

Book today

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Please note:

  • You do not need to be a member of the Entrepreneurs’ Forum to be nominated/apply for any of our award categories.
  • There is no cost to enter.
  • Entries for One to Watch, Impact Award and Entrepreneur of the Year will be reviewed by our judging panel which comprises of leading North East entrepreneurs and representatives from our Corporate Partners, whereas the Caroline Theobald Award and Lifetime Achievement are decided by the Entrepreneurs' Forum board members. 
  • The closing date for all nominations is Wednesday 30th April and applications Friday 30th May. Submitting an application does not guarantee that you will be shortlisted.  
  • Entrepreneurs who are shortlisted in our One to Watch, Impact Award and Entrepreneur of the Year categories will be invited to an interview with the judging panel. These will take place on Tuesday 8th July, Wednesday 9th July and Monday 14th July respectively.
  • The winners will be announced at our awards dinner on Thursday 18th September at the Hilton Newcastle Gateshead. Each finalist will be given one complimentary ticket with additional tickets priced at £120 + VAT (with tables seating 10). 
  • The judge's decision is final.  
  • You only need to nominate an individual once for them to be considered for an award.  
Hall of Fame

Hall of Fame

Partners

Partners

FAQ

FAQ

Criteria

Criteria

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