With the 2026 Be Inspired Business Awards (BIBAs) finalists now announced, the journey to Lancashire’s biggest business night steps up a gear.
Taking place throughout June, the tour sees an amazing panel of judges travel across the county, visiting finalists in their own workplaces. Then comes the hardest part: a summer of anticipation before the glittering awards night on 18th September, where the winners will be revealed.
From Lancaster to Leyland, St Annes to Skelmersdale and Broughton to Burnley, the tour eats up the miles to uncover the very best in business, right across Lancashire.
Each weekday, teams of judges will hit the road to meet the people behind the entries and spend time with the businesses in the running for a 2026 BIBA in their category.
The tour shines a spotlight on the diversity and excellence of local businesses, spanning ambitious start-ups through to established industry leaders.
It is a vital part of the judging process, giving judges the chance to see operations and culture first-hand before scores are finalised. Each visit is a moment for businesses to bring their story to life, showcasing excellence, innovation, and community impact, while everyone else begins the long summer wait for the big reveal.
For businesses that have made it this far, the BIBAs on Tour is a defining moment: a chance to showcase achievements, culture and ambition on their own turf, and give judges a true feel for what makes them exceptional.
Babs Murphy, chief executive of the North & Western Lancashire Chamber of Commerce, who organise the BIBAs, said: “With our 2026 finalists now announced, the excitement really begins. The BIBAs on Tour is a fantastic way to celebrate the remarkable achievements of Lancashire’s business community.
“It allows us, and our brilliant judging panel, to get a closer look at the inspiring work being done right across the county, and to recognise the passion and dedication of our finalists. We’re thrilled to be out on the road again, championing the very best of Lancashire business.
“This tour exemplifies the collaborative spirit that makes Lancashire’s business environment so dynamic and supportive and it sets the scene for a summer of judging, anticipation and celebration.”
Bringing the BIBAs to You
The BIBAs on Tour is a unique part of the awards, setting them apart from others. Rather than relying only on written applications and interviews, the BIBAs give 2026 finalists the chance to demonstrate their excellence where it matters most, while judges see the impact for themselves.
Judges from across a range of industries board the bus and head out on a countywide journey, stopping at each finalist’s premises. Whether it’s an advanced manufacturing facility, an innovative tech start-up, a thriving retail business, or a high-performing hospitality venue, the tour gives judges a real insight into the organisations competing for top honours.
This face-to-face time turns an entry into a lived experience, spotlighting the people, the purpose, and the drive that has brought each business to this stage of the competition.
The Final Chance to Shine
By the time the BIBAs on Tour arrives, businesses have already made it through a rigorous process, from applications to in-depth interviews. With finalists now confirmed, the tour becomes the next decisive stage, before a summer of judging and waiting begins.
This is the last chance for businesses to impress the judges and prove why they deserve to take home a BIBA. It’s not just about what’s written on the page, it’s about seeing first-hand how businesses lead, how teams work, and how they contribute to Lancashire’s economy.
During the visits, businesses can bring their leadership, innovation and company culture to the forefront. Whether it’s showcasing state-of-the-art production lines, sharing the story behind recent growth, or demonstrating exceptional customer service, finalists will want to make every minute count and leave a lasting impression.
