PARTNER CONTENT: This article has been produced in partnership with Brisbane Economic Development Agency<\/p>\n
Brisbane\u2019s boldest businesses are being urged to put themselves forward, with applications now open for the 2026 Lord Mayor\u2019s Business Awards (LMBA) \u2013 the city\u2019s biggest celebration of innovation, entrepreneurship and success.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
Delivered by Brisbane Economic Development Agency (BEDA), the awards recognise the businesses and leaders driving Brisbane\u2019s rise as one of Australia\u2019s most innovative and globally competitive cities.<\/p>\n
Brisbane Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner said the awards were a great reminder of the talent, ambition and innovation driving Australia\u2019s most business-friendly city.<\/p>\n
\u201cBrisbane\u2019s biggest celebration of business is back, recognising the people who\u2019ve taken a chance, backed themselves and started something of their own,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n
\u201cFor 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.<\/p>\n
\u201cIf you\u2019ve built something you\u2019re proud of \u2013 or you know someone who has \u2013 now\u2019s the perfect time to apply.<\/p>\n
\u201cWhether you\u2019re a local start-up or a global success story, this is your chance to connect with our community, celebrate what you\u2019ve achieved and be part of Brisbane\u2019s ongoing success story.\u201d<\/p>\n
This year\u2019s 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.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
Finalists and winners gain far more than industry recognition, unlocking valuable exposure, strategic partnerships and influential connections across Brisbane\u2019s business community. <\/p>\n
For many, the awards become a catalyst for sustained growth, market credibility and long-term commercial success.<\/p>\n
David Balfe, owner and managing director of Tom\u2019s Pallets, winner of the 2025 Environmental Sustainability in Business Award, said the awards opened the door to valuable new opportunities and connections. <\/p>\n
\u201cWinning the award created opportunities we never expected and introduced us to relationships that have been incredibly beneficial,\u201d he said. \u201cThe 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.<\/p>\n
\u201cEven the application process itself is worthwhile \u2013 it gives you greater clarity about your business, whether you win or not.\u201d<\/p>\n
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.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cWe couldn\u2019t be prouder to have been recognised at the Lord Mayor\u2019s Business Awards,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n
\u201cBuilding and growing a business in Brisbane has been a dream come true. <\/p>\n
\u201cAs one of the world\u2019s most liveable cities, it offers an incredibly supportive, creative, and inspiring environment to be part of and celebrate how far we\u2019ve come.<\/p>\n
\u201cI\u2019d encourage other businesses to put themselves forward. <\/p>\n
\u201cThese awards are a fantastic opportunity to recognise your team\u2019s hard work and gain valuable exposure within Brisbane\u2019s business community.\u201d<\/p>\n
CITYWIDE CELEBRATION OF BUSINESS EXCELLENCE<\/p>\n
The Lord Mayor\u2019s Business Awards continue to showcase the incredible talent and success within the city\u2019s business community.<\/p>\n
2026 CATEGORIES <\/p>\n
\u25cf Accenture Australia Product Innovation Award<\/p>\n
\u25cf Business Transformation Award<\/p>\n
\u25cf Commonwealth Bank Small Business Award<\/p>\n
\u25cf Dentsu High-Growth Business Award<\/p>\n
\u25cf Hutchinson Builders Social Enterprise Award<\/p>\n
\u25cf International Business Award<\/p>\n
\u25cf Investment in Brisbane Award<\/p>\n
\u25cf oOh!media Micro Business Award <\/p>\n
\u25cf Sustainable Impact in Brisbane Award <\/p>\n
Two categories are open to individuals<\/p>\n
\u25cf Port of Brisbane Young Business Person of the Year<\/p>\n
\u25cf Courier-Mail Business Person of the Year<\/p>\n
One overall winner (not open to applications)<\/p>\n
\u25cf Optus Platinum Award<\/p>\n
Why Brisbane businesses should apply<\/p>\n
\u25cf Join a 20-year legacy of excellence<\/p>\n
\u25cf Be recognised as a leading Brisbane business<\/p>\n
\u25cf Access a diverse alumni network<\/p>\n
\u25cf Boost your brand, create new connections and opportunities<\/p>\n
APPLY NOW<\/p>\n
The Lord Mayor\u2019s Business Awards celebrate Brisbane\u2019s innovation, resilience and creativity.<\/p>\n
Be seen. Be connected. Be celebrated.<\/p>\n