PARTNER CONTENT: This article has been produced in partnership with Brisbane Economic Development Agency

Brisbane’s boldest businesses are being urged to put themselves forward, with applications now open for the 2026 Lord Mayor’s Business Awards (LMBA) – the city’s biggest celebration of innovation, entrepreneurship and success.

Now entering its 21st year, the awards have become a launch pad for companies turning big ideas into real-world impact, from ambitious start-ups to globally recognised industry leaders.

Almost 200 Brisbane businesses have joined the prestigious alumni network over the past two decades, with winners spanning industries including manufacturing, sustainability, social enterprise, health, technology and creative industries.

Delivered by Brisbane Economic Development Agency (BEDA), the awards recognise the businesses and leaders driving Brisbane’s rise as one of Australia’s most innovative and globally competitive cities.

Brisbane Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner said the awards were a great reminder of the talent, ambition and innovation driving Australia’s most business-friendly city.

“Brisbane’s biggest celebration of business is back, recognising the people who’ve taken a chance, backed themselves and started something of their own,” he said.

“For over two decades, these awards have shone the spotlight on the businesses that have gone the extra mile to create jobs, attract investment and help Brisbane grow.

“If you’ve built something you’re proud of – or you know someone who has – now’s the perfect time to apply.

“Whether you’re a local start-up or a global success story, this is your chance to connect with our community, celebrate what you’ve achieved and be part of Brisbane’s ongoing success story.”

This year’s awards feature 11 categories, including the Accenture Australia Product Innovation Award, Commonwealth Bank Small Business Award, Sustainable Impact in Brisbane Award and International Business Award.

Individual honours include the Port of Brisbane Young Business Person of the Year and the Courier-Mail Business Person of the Year. One overall winner will receive the prestigious Optus Platinum Award.

Finalists and winners gain far more than industry recognition, unlocking valuable exposure, strategic partnerships and influential connections across Brisbane’s business community.

For many, the awards become a catalyst for sustained growth, market credibility and long-term commercial success.

David Balfe, owner and managing director of Tom’s Pallets, winner of the 2025 Environmental Sustainability in Business Award, said the awards opened the door to valuable new opportunities and connections.

“Winning the award created opportunities we never expected and introduced us to relationships that have been incredibly beneficial,” he said. “The process sharpened our thinking, strengthened our industry credibility and opened doors to new waste streams for a product line that would otherwise have gone to mulch.

“Even the application process itself is worthwhile – it gives you greater clarity about your business, whether you win or not.”

Kristen Souvlis, chief executive of Like a Photon Creative, winner of the 2025 Small Business Award, said the awards allow businesses to reflect on their journey and showcase their achievements.”

“We couldn’t be prouder to have been recognised at the Lord Mayor’s Business Awards,” she said.

“Building and growing a business in Brisbane has been a dream come true.

“As one of the world’s most liveable cities, it offers an incredibly supportive, creative, and inspiring environment to be part of and celebrate how far we’ve come.

“I’d encourage other businesses to put themselves forward.

“These awards are a fantastic opportunity to recognise your team’s hard work and gain valuable exposure within Brisbane’s business community.”

CITYWIDE CELEBRATION OF BUSINESS EXCELLENCE

The Lord Mayor’s Business Awards continue to showcase the incredible talent and success within the city’s business community.

2026 CATEGORIES

● Accenture Australia Product Innovation Award

● Business Transformation Award

● Commonwealth Bank Small Business Award

● Dentsu High-Growth Business Award

● Hutchinson Builders Social Enterprise Award

● International Business Award

● Investment in Brisbane Award

● oOh!media Micro Business Award

● Sustainable Impact in Brisbane Award

Two categories are open to individuals

● Port of Brisbane Young Business Person of the Year

● Courier-Mail Business Person of the Year

One overall winner (not open to applications)

● Optus Platinum Award

Why Brisbane businesses should apply

● Join a 20-year legacy of excellence

● Be recognised as a leading Brisbane business

● Access a diverse alumni network

● Boost your brand, create new connections and opportunities

APPLY NOW

The Lord Mayor’s Business Awards celebrate Brisbane’s innovation, resilience and creativity.

Be seen. Be connected. Be celebrated.

Apply now – or nominate someone making an impact at lmba.com.au.

Applications close Friday, June 26.

Winners announced Friday, October 30 at the awards ceremony.