Businesses across Somerset are being urged to put themselves forward for the 2026 Somerset Business Awards, which officially opened for entries this week.

Now in their 21st year, the awards are organised by Somerset Chamber of Commerce and are open to all businesses and charities in the county. Entry is free, and organisations do not need to be Chamber members to take part.

This year's launch took place at Hestercombe House and Gardens near Taunton, with sponsors, judges and local businesses coming together to kick off the campaign.

Albert Goodman returns as headline sponsor for the 16th consecutive year. Partner Mike Cahill said: "The Somerset Business Awards are a fantastic way to celebrate the drive, innovation and success of businesses across the county.

"We've seen first-hand the real benefits of taking part — from raising a company's profile and building credibility, to motivating teams and creating exciting new opportunities."

Chamber Managing Director David Crew added: "There are 14 categories which cover all sectors and sizes of businesses and charities. Past winners have gained new business as a direct result of the publicity they received."

The categories for 2026 include:

• Small, Medium and Large Business of the Year
• Albert Goodman Family Business of the Year
• Best Use of Digital Technology
• Charity of the Year
• Employer of the Year
• Investing in Somerset
• Start-up of the Year
• Apprentice of the Year
• Environmental and Sustainability
• Service Excellence
• Manufacturing and Engineering
• Business Resilience and Growth

Organisations have until Thursday 21 November to submit their entries via www.somersetbusinessawards.org.uk.

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The grand final will be held at the Bath & West Showground on Thursday 26 March 2026. Tickets are already on sale via the awards site and the Somerset Chamber website at www.somerset-chamber.co.uk.

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