Epping Forest Chamber of Commerce Business Awards 2026
Behind every local business is a story of hard work, determination and ambition. Our Business Awards celebrate those stories and recognise the businesses and individuals who make the Epping Forest District a vibrant place to live and work.
Do you know a business or business owner who deserves recognition?
Explore the categories below and help us celebrate their success by making a nomination.
Awards Ceremony
Join us for the awards ceremony on Saturday 21 November 2026 at GreenAcres Epping Park, as we come together to celebrate our local business community.
With thanks to Epping Forest District Council, Greenacres Living Memorial Parks and our fellow sponsors, whose support helps make these awards possible.
Epping Forest Chamber of Commerce Business Awards 2026
Our Epping Forest Chamber of Commerce Business Awards will be held at Epping Park on Saturday 21 November, arriving from 6.30pm, for a special evening celebrating our local business community.
Set against a beautiful woodland backdrop, the evening will bring together business representatives, award nominees and local dignitaries for a glittering awards ceremony recognising achievements across the district.
Hear from sponsors, business owners and charity representatives, enjoy entertainment during and after the ceremony, and savour a delicious buffet featuring a tempting selection of savoury bites and sweet treats. Wine and soft drinks will be available throughout the evening.
It promises to be a wonderful opportunity to meet fellow business owners, celebrate our nominees and applaud the people helping our local businesses and communities thrive.
Tickets: £35 per person
Book your place and join us for a memorable evening celebrating local success
Thanks to Our Sponsors
EPPING FOREST CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Epping Forest Business Awards 2026
Celebrating local achievement, recognising success and bringing our business community together.
An Evening to Remember
Buffet
Enjoy a buffet as you celebrate with fellow guests.
Entertainment
Make the most of an entertaining evening.
Grand Raffle
Join the fun with our Grand Raffle.
Awards Ceremony
Celebrate the winners and runners-up in every category.
Book Your Tickets Today
Award Categories
Best New Business (under two years old) Award
This award recognises a business based in the Epping Forest District that has been trading for less than two years as at the nomination closing date of 28 October 2026. The business should have a clear understanding of its market and customers, a well-defined business plan and a realistic vision for future growth.
Judges will be looking for:
- A clear understanding of the business’s market and customers.
- Evidence of progress since launching, such as sales, customer numbers, repeat business or significant milestones.
- How the business has responded to challenges encountered along the way.
- A realistic plan for future development and long-term success.
Small Business of the Year
This award recognises a small business, including sole traders, based in the Epping Forest District that demonstrates exceptional expertise in its field, consistently maintains high standards and has successfully implemented effective business strategies, with evidence of growth or other significant business achievements.
Judges will be looking for:
- Exceptional expertise in the business’s field.
- Consistently high standards of work, products or services.
- Business strategies put into practice that have made a positive difference.
- Evidence of growth or other significant business achievements.
Community Impact Award
Judges will be looking for:
- Community involvement embedded in the business’s everyday work and values.
- Inclusive initiatives that bring people together.
- Examples of positive benefits for local people or organisations.
Most Innovative Business Award
Recognising a business based in the Epping Forest District that has successfully put creative ideas into practice, developing new or improved products, services or ways of working that make a positive difference to the business or its customers.
Judges will be looking for:
- A fresh or original approach to a business challenge or opportunity.
- How the idea has been put into practice.
- The benefits or improvements it has delivered.
Business Person of the Year Award
This award recognises a business owner, including sole traders, whose business is based in the Epping Forest District and who demonstrates outstanding commitment, professionalism and initiative in making their business a success.
Judges will be looking for:
- Outstanding dedication and professionalism.
- Initiative in identifying opportunities or overcoming challenges.
- Examples of how their personal efforts have contributed to their business’s success.
Non-profit Business of the Year Award
This award recognises a non-profit organisation based in the Epping Forest District that provides excellent services or support, using its resources to fulfil its purpose and make a positive difference to the people and communities it serves.
Judges will be looking for:
- The quality of services or support provided.
- Examples of positive outcomes for the people it serves.
- Commitment to its purpose and responsible use of resources.
Customer Service Excellence Award
This award recognises a business based in the Epping Forest District that consistently provides exceptional customer service, going the extra mile to understand and meet its customers’ needs.
Judges will be looking for:
- Consistently helpful, responsive and professional service.
- Examples of going above and beyond customers’ expectations.
- How the business responds to customer feedback or resolves problems.
Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award
This award recognises a business owner aged under 25 as at the nomination closing date of 28 October 2026, whose business is based in the Epping Forest District and who demonstrates initiative, ambition and professionalism in building their business.
Judges will be looking for:
- Initiative and creativity in developing their business.
- Commitment to learning and developing their skills.
- Examples of business progress and achievements.
- Clear goals and realistic ideas for the future.
Get In Touch
Have Any Questions?
Send us a message using the form below, or get in touch via either email or phone to further discuss how you can join Epping Forest Chamber of Commerce.