Applications are now open for the Lord Mayor’s Business Awards (LMBA) - a chance to put your business on the map, celebrating bold ideas and impact across 11 diverse categories.

Over the past two decades, almost 200 local business owners and industry leaders have stood on the LMBA stage. In 2026, will it be your turn?

Brisbane Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner said the awards were a great reminder of the talent, ambition and innovation driving Australia’s most business-friendly city.

“Brisbane’s biggest celebration of business is back, recognising the people who’ve taken a chance, backed themselves and started something of their own,” Cr Schrinner said.

“For over two decades, these awards have shone the spotlight on the businesses that have gone the extra mile to create jobs, attract investment and help Brisbane grow.

“If you’ve built something you’re proud of - or you know someone who has - now’s the perfect time to apply.

“Whether you’re a local startup or a global success story, this is your chance to connect with our community, celebrate what you’ve achieved and be part of Brisbane’s ongoing success story.”

Delivered by Brisbane Economic Development Agency, the awards continue to celebrate excellence across key sectors driving the city's economy including technology, health, tourism, hospitality, advanced manufacturing, the arts and design, social enterprise and sustainable impact.

The awards have helped build a strong alumni network of business leaders, with past winners going on to scale globally, attract investment and create jobs across diverse sectors.

Kristen Souvlis co-CEO of Like a Photon Creative, winner of the 2025 Small Business Award, said the recognition was a gamechanger, opening doors to new opportunities.

“We couldn’t be prouder to have been recognised at the Lord Mayor’s Business Awards,” Ms Souvlis said.

“Building and growing a business in Brisbane has been a dream come true. As one of the world’s most liveable cities, it offers an incredibly supportive, creative, and inspiring environment to be part of and celebrate how far we’ve come.

“I’d encourage other businesses to put themselves forward - these awards are a fantastic opportunity to reflect on your journey, recognise your team’s hard work, and gain valuable exposure within Brisbane’s business community.”

Businesses and individuals are encouraged to apply and be part of a long-standing program celebrating the ideas and enterprises shaping Brisbane’s future. Applications close Friday, 26 June 2026.

Visit lmba.com.au to enter the 2026 Lord Mayor’s Business Awards

Nine categories are open to businesses:

·  Accenture Australia Product Innovation Award

·  High-Growth Business Award

·  Business Transformation Award

·  Commonwealth Bank Small Business Award

·  International Business Award

·  Dentsu Sustainable Impact in Brisbane Award

·  Hutchinson Builders Social Enterprise Award

·  Investment in Brisbane Award

·  oOh!media Micro Business Award

Two categories are open to individuals:

·  Port of Brisbane Young Business Person of the Year Award

·  Courier Mail Business Person of the Year Award

One overall winner (not open to applications):

·  Optus Platinum Award

The 2026 Lord Mayor’s Business Awards are supported by valued partners including Accenture Australia, BDO, Brisbane City Council, Channel 7, Dentsu Queensland, Epicure, Hutchinson Builders, NW Group, oOh!media, Optus and Port of Brisbane.