Corporate Star Awards Returns for 2026 with Evolved Categories That Reflect Where the Industry Is Today

The Corporate Star Awards, the programme celebrating the people, teams, and organisations driving meaningful change across the broadcast, media, and entertainment industry, has officially launched its 2026 edition, with thoughtfully updated categories that reflect the realities organisations are navigating right now.

Now in its fourth year, the Awards continue to shine a light on collective achievement across Sustainability, Skills, Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (D&EI), while introducing Cyber Security as a new area of recognition, acknowledging the growing role that responsible digital practice plays in well-run, forward-thinking organisations.

The updates to this year's categories are subtle but deliberate, designed to ensure the Awards remain a true reflection of what the industry is working on, rather than what it was working on five years ago.

Lisa Collins, Co-Founder of the Corporate Star Awards and Founder of Dovetail Creative, explained: "We want the Awards to feel relevant to the people submitting entries and to the wider industry watching. The organisations we work with are dealing with a broader set of responsibilities than ever before, and it felt right to acknowledge that. Cyber security is one example it's not a standalone agenda item anymore, it's part of how responsible organisations operate."

The inclusion of cyber security within the programme is backed by the Trusted Partner Network (TPN), a global, industry-wide content security initiative and community network owned by the Motion Picture Association.

Terri Davies, President of TPN, said: "We're delighted to support the Corporate Star Awards and the inclusion of cyber security within the programme. Recognising strong security practices alongside sustainability, skills, and diversity sends an important signal that responsible operations mean looking after people and infrastructure."

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The Corporate Star Awards have always placed collaboration and measurable impact at their heart, and 2026 is no different. The judging panel, made up of respected industry voices, will evaluate entries on the real-world difference organisations are making,  not just the ambition behind their initiatives.

Barbara Lange, Head Judge of the awards, said: "The most powerful entries are the ones that move beyond ambition to implementation. The 2026 categories give organisations the opportunity to show how they're turning intent into action and delivering lasting impact."

Nominations opened on 13 April 2026, and organisations of all sizes are encouraged to enter and share the initiatives they're proud of, whether that's a long-running programme or a project that's just getting started. Importantly, entry is completely free, made possible by the generous support of industry partners who believe in the value of this recognition. There is no cost barrier to putting your organisation forward.

The Awards are a platform for sharing best practice, learning from peers, and recognising the teams who are quietly doing exceptional work.

The deadline for submissions is 24 August 2026. Winners will be announced at the Awards Ceremony on 12 September 2026, taking place alongside IBC in Amsterdam, one of the industry's most anticipated annual gatherings.

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