Posted inFeature, MidCoast

Record number of finalists announced for 2026 Business NSW Mid North Coast Regional Business Awards

Scotts Head on the NSW Mid North Coast

A record 282 entries have been received for the 2026 Business NSW Mid North Coast Regional Business Awards, with finalists now announced ahead of the September presentation.

Business NSW said this year’s awards attracted more than 100 additional entries compared with last year, with businesses and individuals from across the Mid North Coast represented.

Entries came from micro businesses, start-ups and large employers, as well as visitor experiences, chambers of commerce and individual employees.

Business NSW Regional Director, Mid North Coast, Rod Barnaby said the record number of entries demonstrated the confidence and ambition of businesses across the region.

“The Mid North Coast continues to be home to some of the most innovative, resilient and community-minded businesses in New South Wales,” Barnaby said.

“To receive 282 entries, more than 100 additional submissions compared to last year, is a remarkable achievement and highlights the depth of talent across our region.”

“Our judges were incredibly impressed by the quality of submissions. Across every category, from small businesses through to major employers and individual award nominees, the standard was exceptionally high. Selecting finalists was no easy task.”

The Regional Business Awards recognise businesses and individuals contributing to the regional economy through employment, innovation and their local communities.

The full list of 2026 Mid North Coast Regional Business Awards finalists is available here.

Winners will be announced at the Mid North Coast Regional Business Awards Gala Dinner at Pacific Bay Resort, Coffs Harbour, on 18 September 2026.

It will be the first time the event has been held in the Coffs Coast region.

This year’s awards also coincide with Business NSW’s 200th anniversary.

Business NSW was established in 1826 and says it has spent two centuries advocating for businesses and supporting enterprises across New South Wales.

“As we celebrate 200 years of supporting businesses across New South Wales, it’s fitting to recognise the incredible contribution that businesses on the Mid North Coast make to our economy, communities and future prosperity,” Barnaby said.

“We look forward to celebrating with all our finalists and acknowledging the exceptional achievements that continue to drive our region forward.”


Something going on in your part of the North Coast people should know about? Let us know by emailing newsdesk@nctimes.com.au

Kate is a proud mum of two with a wealth of journalism, media and communications experience across the New England and its surrounding regions. She raises guide dogs in her spare time, loves a good chat...