Business Excellence Awards 2026

The Charters Towers Regional Business Excellence Awards 2026 are all about recognising the incredible businesses, entrepreneurs, and leaders who help make our region thrive. Held every two years, the Awards highlight innovation, resilience, and community spirit across a diverse range of industries.

In 2026, the Awards return with new energy, a refreshed program, and more opportunities for recognition, networking, and celebration.

Why Enter?

Entering the Awards is an opportunity to:

• Showcase your achievements and innovation.
• Gain valuable recognition within the local business community.
• Build your business profile with customers and partners.
• Celebrate your team’s hard work and commitment to excellence.

Finalists and winners will receive promotional exposure through Council’s communication channels and local media, as well as the opportunity to be celebrated at the Business Excellence Awards Gala on Saturday, 23 May 2026.

Who Can Enter?

• Businesses and individuals operating within the Charters Towers Regional Council area are eligible to enter.
• Businesses may self-enter or be nominated by a customer, community member, or peer.
• All nominees will be contacted to confirm their acceptance and to complete a detailed entry form.

How to Nominate or Enter

1. Submit a Nomination - Nominate a deserving local business or individual using the online nomination form.
2. Complete the Entry Form - Nominees will receive an email to complete their entry form, providing details of their achievements and responses to the judging criteria.
3. Provide Supporting Information - Share examples, stories, and results that demonstrate excellence and impact in your business.
4. Celebrate Success - Finalists will be announced before the Gala Event in May 2026.

People’s Choice Award

• All businesses that complete an entry or are nominated by a community member will automatically be entered into the People’s Choice Award.
• Public can vote for their favourite business from Monday, 23 February 2026 to Monday, 23 March 2026.
  
• The business with the highest number of verified votes will be named the People’s Choice winner at the Awards Gala.

Judging Process

• Each entry will be reviewed by an independent judging panel representing local industry and business expertise.
• Judging will be based on set criteria, including business performance, innovation, customer service, community impact, and leadership.
• Judges will assess entries fairly and confidentially.
• The Business of the Year will be selected from the category winners.

Sponsorship Opportunities - Packages Still Available!

Partner with Council to make the Charters Towers Regional Business Excellence Awards 2026 a standout celebration.

• Showcase your brand in front of the region’s most influential business community
• Align your organisation with excellence, growth, and regional pride
• Choose from tailored packages including bespoke sponsorship, in-kind support, or product provision

AWARD CATEGORIES

New & Emerging Business	Recognises a business that has been operating for less than 2 years, that identified a market need and is demonstrating strong potential through innovation, customer engagement, and market presence.	Proudly Sponsored by:
Micro Business (Max. 4 staff)	Celebrates the achievements of small-scale operations making a big impact, showcasing excellence in service, creativity, or niche market success.	Proudly Sponsored by:
Small Business (5 - 19 staff)	Honours businesses that successfully balance growth and quality while contributing to the local economy and employment landscape.	Insert your logo here by sponsoring the Charters Towers Regional Council Business Excellence Awards
Medium & Large Business (20 + staff)	Acknowledges businesses that demonstrate leadership, innovation, and sustainable practices while making a significant impact on the local and regional economy.	Proudly Sponsored by:
Employer of Choice	Celebrates businesses that provide exceptional workplaces, showing commitment to employee development, wellbeing, inclusivity, and culture.	Proudly Sponsored by:
People's Choice	Voted by the community, this award honours a business that has won the hearts of Charters Towers residents through outstanding service, involvement, and local pride.	Proudly Sponsored by:
Young Entrepreneur of the Year (18 years - 39 years)	Recognises a young leader who has demonstrated entrepreneurial spirit, innovation, and determination in building or transforming a business.	Proudly Sponsored by:
Business Person of the Year (40+ years)	Celebrates an experienced business leader who continues to inspire through leadership, community contribution, and sustained business success.	Proudly Sponsored by:
Business of the Year	The pinnacle award recognises an outstanding business that excels across multiple categories, demonstrating excellence in all aspects of operations and community engagement. All award entries will be considered for the Charters Towers Regional Council Business of the Year.	Proudly Sponsored by:

Supporting Sponsors:

• Up North Group