Now in their 18th year, The David Awards celebrate New Zealand’s most outstanding small businesses and entrepreneurs, the ‘Davids’ whose resilience, ingenuity and determination continue to power the country’s economy.
Since launching in 2008, the Awards have become one of New Zealand’s most respected platforms for recognising small business excellence, shining a spotlight on entrepreneurs whose achievements embody courage, authenticity, innovation and tenacity.
The new stewardship partnership formalises a long-standing relationship between NZBusiness and The David Awards, with NZBusiness having supported, promoted and helped grow the programme since its inception.
“Small businesses are the backbone of the New Zealand economy, and The David Awards have long played a vital role in recognising their impact,” says David Nothling-Demmer, Editor of NZBusiness.
“We’re proud to take on the role of Steward and help ensure the Awards continue to thrive for years to come.”
Founder of The David Awards Heather Douglas says the partnership is a natural fit for the future of the programme.
“We’re thrilled to see NZBusiness taking The David Awards under their wing,” says Douglas.
“They are so well aligned with everything The David Awards stand for, have been closely involved in supporting, promoting, judging and growing the Awards for nearly two decades, and know and understand our ‘Davids’ so well.
“Under their stewardship, the future for The David Awards is bright and enduring, and we know the additional opportunities this relationship brings will be very exciting for our entrants and sponsors, as well as for ourselves.”
The 2026 Awards are proudly supported by Voyager as Premier Sponsor, reinforcing a shared commitment to supporting ambitious New Zealand businesses.
Entries are free and open to New Zealand businesses with up to 10 full-time equivalent employees. Applications open Friday, 1 May and close Thursday, 6 August 2026.
Categories for 2026 include:
- Most Outstanding Fledgling Business
- Most Outstanding Established Business
- Most Innovative Business
- Most Inspired Use of Marketing
- Most Outstanding Social Impact
- Solo MEO Award
- People’s Choice Award
Entrepreneurs can enter via The David Awards website.
