Nominations open for 2025 BECBC Business Awards, as new category honours outgoing head judge

As rich and rewarding as the chocolate theme that sets the mood this year, nominations are now open for the 2025 Britain’s Energy Coast Business Cluster (BECBC) Business Awards – one of the most anticipated, and this year, most indulgent events in Cumbria’s business calendar, celebrating the innovation, resilience, and collaboration that define Cumbria’s energy sector supply chain.

This year’s event promises to be a truly decadent celebration, with a luxurious chocolate-themed evening planned for guests. From the styling and menu to a few sweet surprises, the theme will add a rich and indulgent layer to the evening. The awards will be held on Thursday, November 20 at Energus, Workington.

New for 2025 is the introduction of a significant new honour - The John Grainger Award, named after BECBC’s long-standing Executive Director and Head Judge, who steps back this year after nearly a decade of service. Sponsored by Inspira, the award will recognise an individual who has made a lasting and values-driven contribution to the life of the cluster.

John Grainger said: “The awards have never just been about winning. They’re a platform to tell powerful stories about the people and businesses driving change in Cumbria. It’s humbling to have an award created in my name, and I hope it continues to shine a light on those who make a real difference, often behind the scenes.”

Key dates for the 2025 awards:
• Nominations open: May 14
• Nominations close: August 4
• Shortlist announced: August 25
• Judges’ visits: September 15 – October 24
• Awards night: November 20

All shortlisted entrants receive in-person visits from the judging panel - a hallmark of the BECBC process that ensures each finalist is recognised not just for what they write, but for the impact they create.

Dianne Richardson, CEO of BECBC, commented: “Every year the awards bring our members together to celebrate progress, partnerships, and people. John’s leadership has set the tone for what we value - authenticity, fairness and community. This new award ensures that spirit continues.”

Sellafield Ltd has been confirmed as the headline sponsor for the 2025 BECBC Business Awards, reinforcing its longstanding support for the region’s business community.

Sellafield Ltd Chief Supply Chain Officer James Riddick said: “We have supported the annual BECBC Awards for a number of years, and are extremely proud to be part of this exciting annual event. It’s great to see companies highlighting their achievements and demonstrating there’s a thriving business community in the area. I’m really looking forward to this year’s awards where we will be sponsoring the Business of the Year category.”

BECBC is now welcoming additional sponsors to get involved in celebrating the people, partnerships, and projects that drive progress and success across the cluster. There is also opportunity for SMEs to share sponsorship of an award. More information is available on the website. All opportunities are allocated on a first come, first served basis. Sponsoring an award offers a meaningful way to champion the diverse achievements and values that make Cumbria’s energy sector so resilient and collaborative.

Natterjack Marketing was an SME sponsor last year. Rosie Graves, Client Engagement and Marketing Manager said: “We sponsored the BECBC Ambassador of the Year award because we believe in recognising the people who step up, support others, and drive real progress. It’s about celebrating those who make things happen in their industry, often without seeking the spotlight. Supporting the awards is our way of helping to shine a light on the individuals who embody the values BECBC stands for – authenticity, community, and a commitment to making a difference.”

Tetra Tech Europe and UK Division President, Craig Hatch who received Business Person of the year in 2024 said of the awards: "The BECBC Awards recognise the hard work of local businesses. By celebrating these we strengthen our community and drive growth. These awards not only honour achievements but inspire future success and that’s and amazing thing to be part of”.

Nominations across all categories are now live at https://www.becbusinesscluster.co.uk/awards-2025 with the awards ceremony taking place on November 20 at Energus.