Business Awards pivot for posterity

NOMINATIONS for the 2026 Bendigo Bank and Be.Bendigo Business Excellence Awards are now open, with customers, employees and business owners encouraged to nominate a deserving local business online.

Now in its 31st year, several new award categories have been added to the program, including Employer of Choice, Retail, Micro & Home-Based Business, and Education & Training.

In addition, several existing categories have been reshaped – including Hospitality, Tourism & Experiences, Regional Women in Business and Trade Business.

Be.Bendigo CEO Hayley Tibbett paid homage to the three-decades-long tenure of the awards.

“Reaching the 31st edition of the program is a testament to the strength, resilience and innovation of businesses across Greater Bendigo,” she said.

“Each year the program evolves alongside our business community.

“For 2026 we’ve refreshed several categories to ensure the awards remain inclusive and relevant, allowing a wider range of businesses, industries and entrepreneurs to participate and be recognised.

“We encourage everyone to get involved and nominate a business or individual whose work deserves to be celebrated.”

Bendigo Bank’s business banking regional manager (Vic North) Leigh Hooley said the bank is proud to continue its long-standing partnership with the awards.

“The program plays an important role in recognising the innovation,

dedication and entrepreneurial spirit that exists throughout the Greater Bendigo business community,” he said.

“We look forward to celebrating the achievements of local businesses once again in 2026 and acknowledging the organisations and individuals contributing to the continued growth of our region.”

Nominations close at midnight on Thursday 30 April at the Business Excellence Awards website.

The program culminates with the Awards Gala Dinner at Red Energy Arena on Thursday, 13 August.