And they have wasted no time in urging the town’s business community to get their nominations in before time runs out.
With the application window officially open, organisers have issued a firm reminder that companies have until Tuesday, June 30 to put themselves forward for the town’s premier celebration of commerce and industry.
Stepping up to co-host this year’s flagship event for the first time is Harrison Smith, the managing director of Azalea Wealth Management, who will join Simon Corbett, the founder of Orangebox Training Solutions.
Both are prominent figures in the area’s economy and serve as members of the voluntary steering group behind the Hartlepool Business Forum – whose flagship event is the Hartlepool Business Awards.
While Simon is returning to anchor the evening for his fourth consecutive year, this will be Harrison’s first time taking the stage as co-host, promising a fresh energy for the prestigious ceremony.
Harrison is well-known across the area as a proud advocate of the town, frequently dedicating time to supporting charities and championing the grassroots business community.
He said: “I am incredibly passionate about Hartlepool and, having attended the last few awards, I absolutely can’t wait to be a bigger part of it this year. We are also proud that Azalea will be sponsoring one of the categories, and I would encourage others to take up the opportunity to join in because of how great an occasion it is at Hardwick Hall.”
Harrison added: “Now is also the time to apply for one of the categories and give your company the recognition it deserves for what it has achieved so far in the various sectors.”
Simon brings the unique perspective of a former awards winner and he believes that companies of all sizes – from independent sole traders to multinational employers – should seize the moment.
He said: “Putting your business forward for an award has massive benefits. It boosts team morale, shines a spotlight on your hard work, and opens doors to incredible networking and growth opportunities. The awards night itself is such a special, unforgettable occasion and it is phenomenally well-supported by the regional community. I absolutely love hosting this evening every year. We want to see a diverse range of entries, so I urge everyone to get their success stories written down and submitted before the June 30deadline.”
The main event will take place on Thursday, October 15 at Hardwick Hall in Sedgefield. The evening serves as a vital platform for collaboration, networking and regional pride.
This year’s showcase has already received a massive vote of confidence, with NE Security returning as platinum sponsor and global nuclear reactor and fuel design leader X-energy stepping up as the gold sponsor for the second consecutive year.
The 2026 awards ceremony aims to build on the momentum of last year’s packed-out event, which celebrated standout wins for local companies.
Ticket prices are £65+VAT per person / £650+VAT for a table of 10. A variety of category sponsorship packages remain open for businesses looking to align their brand with excellence and show a public commitment to the future of Hartlepool.
To submit a nomination, secure tickets, or discuss remaining sponsorship opportunities, contact the awards team on 01429 363150 or via email at hba@hartlepool.gov.uk. For more details and regular updates, visit the official website at www.hartlepoolbusinessforum.co.uk/hartlepool-business-awards.
