Due to high demand and fantastic engagement from the local business community, the Inverclyde Chamber of Commerce has officially announced a two-week extension for the 2026 ICON Awards submissions. Businesses, social enterprises and individuals now have an extra fortnight to complete and submit their online entries.
Following a highly successful launch at Gourock Golf Club in May, the Chamber has seen a surge of interest across all 11 award categories. The new, final deadline for all submissions is Tuesday 14th July.
The 2026 awards are proudly supported by headline sponsor Diodes Incorporated, a long-standing supporter of the Chamber, alongside a powerhouse lineup of category sponsors so far: James Walker Devol, Business Gateway Inverclyde, Global Ports Holding, CVS Inverclyde, West College Scotland and Clyde Eats.
11 Categories Celebrating Local Excellence
The online entry process covers a diverse range of business achievements. A major focus for 2026 is the Rising Star Award (Under 25), which spotlights young entrepreneurs and professionals doing exceptional work within an Inverclyde-based organisation.
The full list of categories open for entry are:
- Rising Star Award (Under 25s)
- Health & Wellbeing Award
- Most Promising Start-Up Business of the Year
- Tourism & Hospitality Award
- Innovation Excellence Award
- Business Growth Award
- Journey to Net Zero Award
- People & Workplace Excellence Award
- Third Sector Organisation of the Year
- Community Impact Award
- Retail & E-Commerce Award
Supporting a Vital Local Cause: Ardgowan Hospice
The Chamber also reminds entrants that Ardgowan Hospice is the official 2026 charity partner. As a cornerstone of Inverclyde supporting around 1,000 local patients and families annually with palliative care and carer support, all raffle donations from the awards night will go directly to their vital work.
How to Apply
Entries are completely free and welcome from any Inverclyde-based business, charity or sole trader. You do not need to be a Chamber member to enter, and can enter up to 3 different categories per organisation.
To read the full category descriptions and submit your online application before the new deadline, visit the awards page on the Chamber website: ICON Awards 2026 – Inverclyde Chamber of Commerce
Media & Sponsorship Contacts:
For any media inquiries, remaining sponsorship opportunities or further details about the 2026 ICON Awards, please contact:
- Caroline Wengel, Business and Membership Executive – membership@inverclydechamber.co.uk
- Emma McKechnie, Marketing Executive – hello@inverclydechamber.co.uk
- Rhea Gallacher, Events Executive – events@inverclydechamber.co.uk
- Chamber Office Tel: 07872 444631
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