The Be Inspired Business Awards (BIBAs) are back for 2026!

It doesn’t feel long ago that the class of 2025 were collecting their iconic trophies and now applications for this year’s competition are OPEN!

Organisers, the North & Western Lancashire Chamber of Commerce are thrilled to announce the launch of the 2026 BIBAs, the county’s premier business awards program, set to honour the achievements, resilience, and innovation of Lancashire’s business community.

In just a few months’ time, it could be your business on the stage at Blackpool Tower Ballroom, but first you need to get your applications by the deadline, which this year falls on 27th March.

Blackpool-based Glasdon Group scooped last year's Business of the Year at the BIBAs

placeholder image — Blackpool-based Glasdon Group scooped last year's Business of the Year at the BIBAs

This year’s BIBAs ceremony will take place on Friday 18th September.

Once again, with 20 categories up for grabs, the class of 2026 will have to prove themselves to be in real competition for “the one they all want to win.”

Before the winners can step foot on the stage though, the applications must be sifted through before a judging process which includes interviews at Preston North End’s Deepdale stadium before a month-long BIBAs bus tour across Lancashire during the summer.

Sponsors and suppliers are also back for the big event and the BIBAs judges are all in place for what is always an amazing year for Lancashire’s premier awards.

NWLCC President Dawn Cheetham with Lancastrian of the Year, Glasdon chairman Donald Sidebottom

Babs Murphy, Chief Executive of the North & Western Lancashire Chamber of Commerce, said: “The BIBAs celebrates the achievements of the Lancashire business community, our diverse sectors, incredible workforce and for many, the pinnacle of their year.

“I would encourage businesses of all shapes and sizes to enter because this year that famous trophy could have your name on it.

“The BIBAs is much more than just an awards night, they are an inspirational event and a catalyst for growth, prosperity and innovation for our amazing county.”

Businesses interested in entering the 2026 BIBAs can find full details, including category descriptions and entry requirements, at www.thebibas.co.uk, where you will also find the Class of 2025.