Nominate great growers, producers, and those with community spirit

THE Ballarat region is home to an incredible business community, filled with passionate people, innovative ideas and enterprises that continue to shape the future of our region.

Each year the Federation University Commerce Ballarat Business Excellence Awards provide an opportunity to recognise and celebrate those individuals and businesses that go above and beyond, and in 2026 we are excited to see this take shape.

Nominations are now open for the Regional Development Australia Grampians Growers & Producers People’s Choice Award as well as the Community Bank Buninyong Community Spirit People’s Choice Award, giving the broader community the chance to recognise the businesses that make a difference in their daily lives.

Unlike traditional award categories, the People’s Choice Awards are driven entirely by public nominations and support, allowing customers, clients and community members to acknowledge these outstanding businesses.

We are also pleased to announce the return of the Power FM Young Business Person of the Year Award for 2026. Ballarat is fortunate to have an emerging generation of business leaders who are bringing fresh ideas, ambition and innovation to our local economy.

This category recognises young professionals, entrepreneurs and business owners who are making a significant contribution to their industry, workplace and community.

To ensure the highest calibre of assessment, an exceptional judging panel has been assembled. We are privileged to have the expertise of Anthony Schinck, whose extensive experience in economic development, investment attraction and regional growth initiatives provides a deep understanding of the opportunities and challenges facing regional businesses.

Joining him is Stuart Benjamin, a highly respected business leader and property developer who has played a significant role in shaping commercial and residential growth across Ballarat and regional Victoria through his entrepreneurial vision and long-standing commitment to the region.

Completing the panel is Janet Dore, an accomplished business executive whose decades of experience across multiple industries, combined with her strong focus on leadership, business development and community contribution, make her an invaluable addition to the judging team.

The excitement doesn’t stop with the Business Excellence Awards. August will also see the return of the B31 August Business Festival, delivering a month-long program of professional development, networking and business growth opportunities for businesses of all sizes.

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