The South West Business & Community Awards 2026 have announced their shortlisted nominees after a record-breaking year, having received over 1,578 nominations from across the region.
The awards celebrate outstanding achievement, leadership, innovation and community impact across businesses, charities and individuals operating throughout the South West. This year’s nominations reflected the strength, diversity and resilience of the regional economy, with entries spanning sectors including professional services, construction, security, technology, healthcare, hospitality and social enterprise.
Judges commented on the exceptional quality of submissions, noting that the volume and standard of nominations made the shortlisting process highly competitive across all categories.
Alec Jones-Hall, Founder of the South West Business & Community Awards, said:
“Receiving more than 1,578 nominations this year is a powerful reflection of the strength, resilience and community spirit across the South West. The standard of entries was exceptionally high, making the judging process extremely competitive. Every shortlisted nominee should be incredibly proud — being shortlisted is a significant achievement and highlights the positive impact being made across business and the wider community.”
A full list of shortlisted nominees across all categories can be viewed here: http://www.southwestbusinessawards.co.uk/shortlisted-nominees/
Among this year’s shortlisted nominees is Phil House, who has been shortlisted for the Lifetime Achievement Award. Phil is the Founder and Chairman of Shield Services Group, a Bristol-based business he established and has grown into a respected and multi-disciplinary security and support services organisation.
Over the course of his career, Phil has played a pivotal role in building Shield Services Group into a trusted regional employer, delivering high standards of service across both the public and private sectors. Under his leadership, the company has expanded its operations, diversified its service offering and invested heavily in people, training and long-term client relationships.
Phil’s nomination recognises not only the longevity and success of the business he founded, but also his sustained commitment to leadership, professionalism and positive regional impact. His shortlisting reflects the calibre of individuals being recognised in this year’s awards and the importance of long-term contribution to business and community life.
The winners of the South West Business & Community Awards 2026 will be announced on 11 March 2026 at a black-tie awards gala dinner, hosted at The DoubleTree by Hilton Swindon. The event will bring together business leaders, entrepreneurs and community champions from across the South West to celebrate success, collaboration and positive change.
The South West Business & Community Awards continue to play a vital role in championing regional success stories — recognising those who drive growth, create opportunities and make a meaningful difference across the South West.