Organisers of the Liverpool Independent Business Awards say entries are now open for the 2026 awards. Tony McDonough reports

Entries are now open for the Merseyside Independent Business Awards (MIBs) 2026.

Founded in 2013 by Morecrofts Solicitors, the MIB Awards were created to champion the diverse and thriving independent business landscape that underpins the region’s economy.

This year’s black-tie awards ceremony will take place in front of an audience of hundreds of people at the Titanic Hotel Liverpool on Thursday, October 15.

Alison Lobb, managing partner at Morecrofts Solicitors, said: “The Merseyside Independent Business Awards are about celebrating the ambition, resilience and creativity of the independent businesses that drive our regional economy.

“Every year we are inspired by the stories we hear – from start‑ups and scaling businesses to purpose‑led organisations making a real difference in their communities.

“I would encourage every independent business in our region to consider entering the MIB Awards 2026 and taking this opportunity to be recognised and celebrated.”

Returning to support the awards is the Liverpool Business Improvement District, showing its continued commitment to championing the City Region’s independent business community.

Bill Addy, chief executive of Liverpool BID, added: “Independent businesses play a vital role in creating vibrant, successful places to work, visit and invest in.

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“The MIB Awards celebrate not only business success, but the innovation, diversity and determination that make Merseyside’s independent sector so special.”

Entries for the MIB Awards 2026 are now open and can be submitted by clicking here. Businesses can enter themselves or be nominated by others. List of categories:

• Trades or Manufacturing Business of the Year – Sponsored by JEC Business Finance
• Professional Services Business of the Year – Sponsored by Everton FC
• Culture & Tourism Business of the Year – Sponsored by Merseyrail
• Best Creative Business Sponsored by Forresters IP
• Children Focussed Business of the Year – Sponsored by Hatfields Jaguar Land Rover Liverpool
• Retailer of the Year – Sponsored by The Guide Liverpool
• Best Start Up Business – Sponsored by Bruntwood
• Community Interest Company of the Year –  Sponsored by Butterworth Spengler Insurance Group
• Food Venue of the Year –  Sponsored by B&L Creative
• Health and Wellbeing Business of the Year – Sponsored by Titanic Hotel Liverpool
• Employer of the Year – Sponsored by Handelsbanken
• Digital & Technology Business of the –  Year Sponsored by DSG Accountants