Businesses across New England North West are preparing for a major regional celebration after tickets were released for the 2026 New England North West Business Awards gala dinner.

The event will bring together business owners, community representatives, finalists, sponsors and supporters from across the region later this month. The gala is scheduled to take place in Quirindi on September 25.

Finalists have been selected across 21 award categories, giving businesses and individuals from communities throughout the region an opportunity to receive recognition for their work and contribution.

Representatives from Armidale, Currumbula, Emmaville, Glen Innes, Gunnedah, Inverell, Kootingal, Narrabri, Quirindi, Tamworth, Uralla and Walcha are among those represented in the finalist list.

The awards are designed to highlight businesses that have demonstrated resilience, innovation and commitment to their local communities. Organisers say the event provides an opportunity for regional businesses to celebrate achievements while building stronger connections across the area.

The winners of the regional categories will also have an opportunity to progress as finalists in the State Business Awards, potentially giving successful businesses wider recognition across New South Wales.

The Liverpool Plains will host this year’s gathering, with the gala planned to include dinner, live entertainment and a special presentation featuring the Quirindi Silo Art, Light and Sound Show.

Regional business leaders have welcomed the event as an opportunity to recognise the people working behind local businesses and the contribution they make to their communities.

For smaller regional towns, such events can provide an important platform for businesses that may not receive the same level of attention as companies operating in major Australian cities.

The awards also offer finalists an opportunity to connect with other businesses operating across different industries and communities throughout the New England North West.

With the finalists already announced, attention is now turning to the gala presentation, where winners in the 21 categories will be revealed.

The event is expected to bring together a broad cross-section of the regional business community and provide a chance to celebrate achievements across the New England North West.