Member News
North East Executive & Leadership Coaching Company Is This You?, have been named a finalist in the 2026 Allica Bank Great British Entrepreneur Awards, shortlisted in the Innovation Entrepreneurs of the Year category.
The 2026 shortlist tells a story that goes well beyond a single celebration. Taken together, the Class of 2026 represents the real engine of the British economy.
The 2026 shortlist in numbers:
● 5,000 applications received
● 740 businesses shortlisted
● £3.3bn combined turnover
● 17,700+ jobs supported
● 2,700+ new jobs being created
● 5,200+ years of combined trading
● 40% women-led businesses
● 10 UK regions and nations represented
● 50% already selling overseas
This is why the Great British Entrepreneur Awards exists. Not to celebrate the loudest voices, but the businesses quietly powering the UK economy.
John Forth, Co-Founder & COO Of IS THIS YOU? said :
“Being named a finalist is a proud moment for us and reflects the purpose at the heart of Is This You? — helping leaders lead authentically and sustainably. This recognition also highlights the growing importance of innovative approaches to coaching.
We’re proud of what we’re building with our ADVANTAGE OS coaching platform – a perfect blend of human & tech, which enables leaders to unlock their full potential, so it’s fantastic to be recognised in a category that celebrates innovation and alongside a community of businesses making a real difference on a national stage.”
The Great British Entrepreneur Awards are proudly supported by Allica Bank.
Conrad Ford, Chief Product & Strategy Officer at Allica, said:
“What stands out this year is the optimism and ambition that continue to define the UK's established business community. Having run my own business, I know the resilience, creativity and sheer determination it takes to build something that lasts, especially in challenging times.
“Established businesses are the real economy, making up a third of the UK's GDP and employment, and represented in every town across the country. At Allica, we're proud to support and celebrate their contribution through the Great British Entrepreneur Awards.”
