On 26 March 2026, the National Enterprise Network welcomed delegates from across the UK and beyond to its flagship Annual Conference and Awards, hosted at Barclays, Canary Wharf.
Bringing together leaders from enterprise support, government, education, and industry, the event demonstrated the strength, collaboration and ambition that underpins the UK’s enterprise ecosystem.
A Day of Insight, Energy and Collaboration
Under this year’s theme “Ignite Enterprise, Inspire Change – Small Businesses. Big Ideas. Bright Futures.”, the conference explored how the sector can continue to evolve in response to emerging challenges and opportunities.
The programme featured inspiring keynote speakers, thought-provoking panel discussions, and interactive breakout sessions, alongside valuable opportunities for networking and partnership building.
Throughout the day, key themes emerged:
The energy in the room reflected a shared commitment to driving forward a more connected, impactful and resilient business support system.
Event Photography
A special thank you to Chris Morris PR for capturing the energy and highlights of the day.
Chris generously volunteered his time to photograph the conference and awards, bringing a keen eye for storytelling and detail. His work helps us showcase the people, moments and impact that define the National Enterprise Network community, and we are incredibly grateful for his support.
To find out more about Chris and his work, visit Chris Morris PR – Public Relations
A highlight of the event was the NEN Awards 2026, recognising the outstanding organisations, partnerships and programmes making a real difference to entrepreneurs and communities across the UK.
Enterprise Support Organisation of the Year (Over £750k Turnover)
Allia Impact Ltd
Recognised for its exceptional work supporting entrepreneurs to build ventures that deliver both economic and social impact. Through a structured founder journey, Allia has supported over 2,200 founders and helped launch 196 new ventures in the past two years. Their strong commitment to inclusive entrepreneurship ensures opportunities are accessible to diverse communities while driving meaningful economic growth.
Enterprise Support Organisation of the Year (Under £750k Turnover)
TEDCO Business Support Ltd
Awarded for its inclusive and community-focused approach across North East England. Supporting more than 2,000 individuals between 2023–2025, TEDCO delivers flexible, accessible support that removes barriers to starting a business. Their work reaches underrepresented groups and demonstrates how a smaller organisation can achieve significant economic and social impact.
Social & Community Impact Award
Yorkshire in Business – Freedom Providers Programme
Recognised for delivering outstanding social impact through an innovative programme supporting individuals to become self-employed micro care providers. With over 750 participants engaged, 123 new providers created, and nearly 1,000 hours of care delivered weekly, the programme is strengthening communities while addressing critical care needs.
Innovation & Digital Transformation in Enterprise Award
UMi – UMi Sat Nav for Business
Awarded for transforming how businesses access support through a powerful digital platform combining smart technology with human expertise. With over one million users navigating 7,000 opportunities and unlocking £1 billion in investment, UMi has redefined accessible, personalised business support.
Enterprise & Education Collaboration Award
LSE Generate – Schools Programme
Recognised for its global programme equipping young people with entrepreneurial skills and real-world problem-solving experience. Working with over 150 schools, the initiative empowers students aged 11–19 to develop social enterprise ideas, with a strong focus on accessibility for disadvantaged learners.
Place Based Enterprise and Local Economy Award
MENTA (Mid Anglia Enterprise Agency)
Awarded for its outstanding place-based approach to strengthening local economies across Norfolk, Suffolk and Essex. Through long-standing partnerships and community-embedded programmes, MENTA has supported thousands of individuals to start and grow businesses, creating lasting economic and social impact.
Highly Commended: Yorkshire in Business
Outstanding Enterprise Partnership Award
Business Information Point – Future Farming Resilience Partnership
Recognised for leading a powerful collaboration supporting farm businesses through major agricultural changes. Engaging over 2,500 enterprises across the South West, the partnership has delivered coordinated advice, skills development and practical support, helping rural businesses adapt and build resilience.
Chairman’s Awards
Two special Chairman’s Awards were presented in recognition of exceptional service to the enterprise support community.
Phil Ashford (Posthumous Award)
Recognised for his unwavering commitment to supporting individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds and his lasting contribution to the enterprise support community. His impact continues to be felt across the sector.
Geoff Ranson
Celebrated for over 14 years of dedicated service to the South London enterprise ecosystem. Geoff has supported countless entrepreneurs through one-to-one advice, workshops and community initiatives, and has been a passionate advocate for inclusive and socially driven enterprise.
Thank You to Our Community
We would like to thank all our speakers, partners, sponsors and delegates for contributing to such a powerful and inspiring event. The openness, collaboration and shared purpose seen throughout the day truly reflect the strength of the NEN network.
As we look ahead, the conversations and connections from the conference will continue to shape how we collectively support businesses, communities and local economies across the UK.
