2026 Canberra Women in Business Awards

The Canberra Women in Business Awards are a proud celebration of women who are leading, building and contributing across the Canberra region. Each year, the awards recognise the achievements, resilience and impact of local women in business – from emerging entrepreneurs to established leaders.

Over the years, many CWB award winners have been featured on the cover of Canberra Weekly, helping share their stories and celebrate their success with the wider community.

Please add to your diary:
2026 CWB Gala will be held Friday 23 October 2026

Plans are well underway for the 2026 Gala. It promises to be another unforgettable evening recognising the remarkable women shaping our local business community

Be sure to keep an eye on our newsletter for Gala ticket announcements, as this is always a highly anticipated event on the Canberra business calendar.

Thinking of entering the 2026 Canberra Women in Business Awards?

Award nominations are open - apply now

Nominations Close: 16 September 2026

Gala Awards Night: Friday 23 October 2026

Canberra Women in Business (CWB) is proud to celebrate the achievements of women leading the way in business, innovation, sustainability, and community service. Our annual awards recognise outstanding contributions and provide a platform to showcase the exceptional talent of businesswomen in the Canberra region.

Nominate a business woman you know, or scroll down and start your application.

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Eligibility:

  • Entrants must be a Canberra Women in Business member.
  • Entrants can apply for a maximum of two award categories.
  • The awards are open to women leading businesses, social enterprises, or community initiatives in the Canberra region. *
  • Businesses must have been established for a minimum of 2 years, but can be at any stage of development – from start-ups to well-established.
  • Applicants are required to provide financial statements for the previous year OR a letter from a registered bookkeeper or accountant confirming the business’s financial viability. **

* Potential Conflicts of Interest: Members holding committee, sub-committee or other CWB advisory positions are eligible to apply as long as:

  • They have not participated in the judging process for the 2026 CWB Awards, nor served as judges in the previous two years.
  • They formally notify the Committee of their intention to apply and declare any potential conflicts of interest 2 months before the awards open.
  • They are excluded from all discussions related to the awards and do not access any awards-related documentation, including information about the 2026 judging panel.


** Why provide financial success indicators? Financial information helps the judges assess the overall sustainability and growth of your business. It’s not about the size of your revenue but about demonstrating impact, viability, and success. Providing these indicators strengthens your entry and helps highlight your achievements. All financial information provided will be treated as confidential and will be removed within three months of the award ceremony.

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Canberra Women in Business Awards - Apply Now

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Nominate a businesswoman you think should apply

Doma

Canberra Business Women of the Year

Empowering success,
leading with impact.

Canberra Daily Weekly Logo

Social Impact Business Woman of the Year

Creating change,
shaping the future.

ACT GOVT

Indigenous Business Woman of the Year

Honouring heritage,
driving success.

Parker Coles Curtis Logo

Young Business Woman of the Year

Rising talent,
unstoppable drive.

Auda

Community Service Business Woman of the Year

Dedicated to giving,
driven to serve.

Instant colour press logo

Sustainability Business Woman of the Year

Leading today,
preserving tomorrow.

Cbrin logo

Innovation Business Woman of the Year

Breaking barriers,
redefining business.

Southern Cross Austereo Logo

Leadership Business Woman of the Year

Inspiring leadership,
shaping Canberra’s future.

Amplify CBR Logo

Small Business Woman of the Year

Big vision,
thriving business.

Sunshine Events Logo

Micro Business Woman of the Year

Smale scale,
powerful impact.

Interested in supporting the Gala in other ways?

You may wish to become a sponsor and help champion women in business across the region.