A new awards programme celebrating Farnham’s businesses, entrepreneurs and community champions has been launched.

The first Farnham Business Awards will be held at Farnham Maltings on April 29, 2027, with businesses, sole traders, charities and individuals from across the town eligible for recognition.

The awards are being organised jointly by Farnham BID and Farnham Chamber of Commerce, with entries and nominations opening at the beginning of November. Entry will be free.

Categories will include Best New Start-Up, Business Innovation Award, Sustainability Campaign, Community Hero, Customer Excellence, Best Charity, Best Professional or Business Service, Best Hospitality Business, Best Leisure Business and Best Retail Business.

Entries will be assessed by an independent judging panel drawn from the local business community, with judges to be announced in the coming months.

Shortlisted businesses and finalists will be revealed ahead of the ceremony.

Gemma McBride, chair of Farnham BID, said: “Farnham and the immediate surrounding areas has an extraordinary business community, with so many people doing incredible things that deserve to be recognised and celebrated.

“The Farnham Business Awards are about bringing those people and businesses into the spotlight and creating a night that the whole business community can be proud of.”

Nick Kent, chair of Farnham Chamber of Commerce, said: “We are thrilled to work with the team at Farnham BID to bring the awards to life.

“Farnham has an exceptional number of thriving businesses and a unique community, giving us lots to celebrate. We want to make this celebration an annual event, formalising and recognising those individuals and businesses that go above and beyond.”

Sponsorship is currently being secured, while organisers plan to visit local businesses to encourage entries and nominations.

Farnham BID represents more than 450 businesses, while Farnham Chamber of Commerce provides a network for local business leaders.

The awards evening at Farnham Maltings will include a three-course dinner, music and entertainment.