The National Enterprise Network (NEN) brought together leaders from across the UK’s enterprise support ecosystem on 26 March 2026 for its annual Conference & Awards, held at Barclays, Canary Wharf.
The event welcomed representatives from enterprise support organisations, government, education and industry, creating a dynamic space for discussion, collaboration and shared learning. Under the theme “Ignite Enterprise, Inspire Change – Small Businesses. Big Ideas. Bright Futures.”, the conference explored how the sector can continue to evolve to meet the changing needs of small businesses and entrepreneurs.
A highlight of the day was the NEN Awards 2026, which recognise outstanding organisations, partnerships and programmes delivering real impact across the enterprise support landscape.
Recognising Impact Across the UK
This year’s winners showcased the breadth and depth of innovation, inclusion and collaboration taking place across the sector.
Allia Impact Ltd was named Enterprise Support Organisation of the Year (Over £750k Turnover), recognised for supporting over 2,200 founders and launching 196 new ventures through its structured and inclusive approach to enterprise support.
In the Under £750k Turnover category, TEDCO Business Support Ltd was awarded for its community-focused delivery across North East England, supporting more than 2,000 individuals and demonstrating how smaller organisations can achieve significant impact.
The Social & Community Impact Award was presented to Yorkshire in Business for its Freedom Providers Programme, an innovative initiative supporting individuals to become self-employed micro care providers while addressing local care needs and strengthening communities.
UMi received the Innovation & Digital Transformation in Enterprise Award for its “UMi Sat Nav for Business” platform, which has supported over one million users to access tailored opportunities and unlock £1 billion in investment.
The Enterprise & Education Collaboration Award was awarded to LSE Generate for its global schools programme, equipping young people with entrepreneurial skills and enabling them to develop solutions to real-world challenges.
In the Place Based Enterprise and Local Economy Award category, MENTA (Mid Anglia Enterprise Agency) was recognised for its long-standing work embedding enterprise support within communities across the East of England, while Yorkshire in Business received a highly commended recognition.
The Outstanding Enterprise Partnership Award was presented to Business Information Point for its leadership of the Future Farming Resilience Partnership, supporting over 2,500 farm businesses to adapt to significant changes in agricultural policy.
Special Recognition
Two Chairman’s Awards were also presented in recognition of exceptional contribution to the enterprise support community.
A posthumous award honoured Phil Ashford for his unwavering commitment to supporting individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds and his lasting impact across the sector.
Geoff Ranson was recognised for over 14 years of dedicated service to the South London enterprise ecosystem, supporting countless entrepreneurs and championing inclusive enterprise.
Looking Ahead
The awards highlighted the vital role enterprise support organisations play in driving economic growth, fostering innovation, and creating opportunities within communities across the UK.
Reflecting on the event, NEN reaffirmed its commitment to supporting its members and partners to deliver high-quality, impactful support to businesses and entrepreneurs nationwide.
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