Nominations are now open for the Women of the Year Luncheon and Awards 2026, one of the UK’s longest-running celebrations of female achievement. Now in its 44th year, the awards recognise inspirational women making a meaningful impact in business. Individuals can nominate themselves or a colleague for the Woman of Edge Award or Businesswoman of the Year. Finalists will be honoured at the prestigious awards luncheon at Manchester’s Etihad Stadium on 9 October 2026. Entries close 30 June 2026 via the Women of the Year website.
Nominations are now officially open for the Women of the Year Luncheon and Awards 2026, inviting women across the UK to put themselves forward – or nominate an exceptional colleague, leader or peer – for one of the country’s most established and respected accolades celebrating female achievement.
Now in its 44th year, WOTY continues to shine a spotlight on inspirational women making a significant impact in business, public life and their communities. Nominations can be submitted via the official website: www.womenoftheyear.org.uk, until the closing date 30 June 2026. Women may nominate themselves or be nominated by others, with entries welcomed from all sectors and regions of the UK.
There are two open award categories for 2026: Woman of Edge Award 2026, sponsored by leading national law firm Freeths, and Businesswoman of the Year Award 2026.
Following the closing date, a shortlist of around 20 finalists will be selected by a team of WOTY ambassadors. Finalists will be invited to attend a face-to-face interview with a judging panel in September, to determine the final two award winners.
The prestigious Women of the Year Luncheon and Awards ceremony celebrating shortlisted entrants and announcing the winners will take place on Friday 9 October 2026 at the Etihad Stadium, Manchester, supported once again by headline sponsor Aldermore Bank.
The awards will be presented by WOTY President, actor and producer Sally Lindsay, who will lead the celebrations on the day, which includes a welcome drinks reception, exclusive shopping experience, and a three-course luncheon menu designed by acclaimed chefs Anna Stanford and Delia-Maria Asser.
The Women of the Year Awards continue to attract nominations from leading business women across the UK. Last year’s winners were Rachel Corp – CEO, ITN (Businesswoman of the Year), Neev Spencer – award-winning broadcaster and host of Magic Radio show (Freeths Woman with Edge award), and the Emmeline Pankhurst Award for Woman of Achievement was awarded to the Women of the Post Office.
Zalena Vandrewala, WOTY’s Chair comments on the 2026 awards launch:
“Women of the Year exists to celebrate the remarkable achievements of women who are leading, innovating and driving change. We know there are countless women delivering extraordinary impact in organisations and communities across the UK – and we encourage them not to wait to be recognised, but to step forward.
“For HR leaders and senior leadership teams, this is also an opportunity to publicly champion the female talent within your organisation. Nominating a colleague can be a powerful way to recognise leadership, resilience and success, while reinforcing your commitment to diversity and inclusion.”
In addition to nominations, businesses are encouraged to attend the luncheon, host clients and teams, or explore sponsorship opportunities. Table bookings and sponsorship packages are now available via the Women of the Year website.
For organisations committed to supporting women in leadership, sponsoring or attending the event offers a high-profile platform to demonstrate that commitment, network with senior decision-makers, and celebrate excellence at a nationally recognised event.
Nominations are open from 5 March 2026 to 30 June 2026, to begin a nomination click here.