With judging now underway for the Test Valley Business Awards 2026, Gold Sponsor Stannah is once again helping to recognise the talented young people who are helping to shape the future of business across the borough.
Stannah is sponsoring the Young Business Person Award, celebrating the drive, ambition and achievements of the next generation of business leaders in Test Valley.
The award recognises young professionals who are already making a significant impact within their business or sector, whether through entrepreneurship, leadership, innovation or their contribution to the growth and success of an organisation.
For some, that may mean building their own business from the ground up. For others, it could be leading a team, introducing new ideas, developing new opportunities or demonstrating the determination and potential to become one of the business leaders of the future.
The Young Business Person Award also recognises the importance of continued personal and professional development, celebrating individuals who are not only achieving success today but investing in the skills and experience that will help them progress in the years ahead.
For Stannah, supporting the next generation has particular significance.
Founded in 1867 and headquartered in Andover, the family-owned engineering business has passed knowledge, experience and responsibility between generations for more than 150 years. That same commitment can be seen in its longstanding support for apprenticeships and career development across engineering, manufacturing and a wide range of business roles.
Stannah has championed apprenticeships throughout its history, creating opportunities for people to combine practical workplace experience with recognised professional qualifications and providing pathways for young talent to develop and progress within the business.
Fiona Neil, Head of Group Communications at Stannah, has previously described the company as passionate about supporting “young people who are forging their own paths in business”.
Stannah’s continued sponsorship of the Young Business Person Award reflects that commitment to recognising ambition, encouraging development and celebrating those taking the early steps towards becoming the business leaders of tomorrow.
Katie Brooks, Chairman of the Test Valley Business Awards, said:
“One of the things I love about the Young Business Person Award is that it gives us a glimpse of the future of business in Test Valley.
“These are people who may still be at an early stage in their careers but are already demonstrating the ambition, ideas and leadership that can make a real difference to a business.
“Success doesn’t necessarily mean owning your own company. We want to recognise young people who are creating opportunities, taking responsibility, bringing new ideas into established businesses and showing just how much they are capable of achieving.
“Stannah is such a natural partner for this award. As a business with generations of experience behind it and a long history of investing in apprenticeships and developing talent, it understands how important it is to give people opportunities to learn, grow and realise their potential.
“We’re delighted to have Stannah returning as a Gold Sponsor and helping us celebrate some of the exceptional young business talent we have here in Test Valley.”
Following the close of nominations on Sunday 2 August, Stannah and the other Test Valley Business Awards Gold Sponsors are now reviewing this year’s entries as part of the judging process.
The Young Business Person Award attracted nominations from across the borough, highlighting individuals whose leadership, innovation, achievements and commitment to development are already making an impact within the local business community.
The judging process will now determine the finalists who will go forward to represent the category at this year’s awards.
The winners will be revealed at the Test Valley Business Awards Gala Dinner and Awards Ceremony on Saturday 17 October 2026, bringing together businesses, sponsors, finalists and guests to celebrate achievement from across Test Valley.
Further announcements, including details of the 2026 finalists, will be made following the completion of judging.
Visit www.tvbawards.org.uk and follow the Test Valley Business Awards on social media for the latest news and announcements.
Test Valley Business Awards 2026 – celebrating, supporting and championing brilliant businesses across Test Valley.