Derby Impact Awards return for 2026

After a sell-out inaugural event in 2025, the Derby Impact Awards return for 2026.

The Derby Impact Awards 2026 return in November after a sell-out event in 2025. Celebrating the people and organisations creating positive social, environmental and economic change across Greater Derby, the awards recognise the charities, social enterprises, community organisations, responsible businesses and inspirational individuals whose work improves lives and strengthens communities. A special awards celebration event will take place at The Library on the Wardwick on Thursday 19 November 2026, where this years’ winners will be announced. Claire Ward, Mayor of the East Midlands, Mrs Elizabeth Fothergill CBE, HM Lord-Lieutenant of Derbyshire, and Catherine Atkinson MP will be among the event’s prestigious awards givers and guest speakers. The Derby Impact Awards bring together the people shaping Derby’s future: from business leaders, social entrepreneurs, charities, investors, public sector organisations to community leaders.

Keith Jeffrey, Co-founder of Derby Social Ventures, said:

“The Derby Impact Awards are more than a celebration. They help raise the profile of social impact in Derby, strengthen connections between organisations, and showcase the people creating real economic and community value across the city. The 2025 awards winners reported increased visibility, stronger credibility, new partnerships, fresh enquiries, and a real boost in confidence for their teams. We want to shine a light on the remarkable people and organisations making a difference across Derby. Much of this work happens quietly, so the awards provide an important opportunity to recognise their impact, share their stories and inspire others.”

Derby Impact Awards 2026 – applications now open

Applications are now open for The Derby Impact Awards 2026, and submissions are welcomed from organisations and individuals working across the Greater Derby area. Nominations can be made for yourself or another organisation or individual.

The ten Award categories include Social Entrepreneur of the Year, Enterprising Charity of the Year, Social Enterprise or Impact Venture of the Year, Impact Business of the Year, and Neurodivergence Impact Venture of the Year. The awards are delivered by Derby Social Ventures in partnership with Nimbus Disability, award sponsors include P3 Charity Group and Sunshine Support. Applications are open until 5pm on Monday 26 October 2026

Martin Austin MBE of Nimbus Disability said:

“Nimbus Disability is proud to support the Derby Impact Awards. Derby has an extraordinary community of people and organisations committed to making our city fairer, more inclusive and more accessible. These awards celebrate their achievements and help ensure their contribution receives the recognition it deserves.”

For further information, application guidance and tickets, please visit www.derbyimpactawards.co.uk