The Trades Awards have evolved alongside the industry.

Today, as well as providing a platform for businesses to celebrate excellence, they are also a showcase for leadership, collaboration, innovation, and impact at scale. If your business is delivering major projects, managing large teams, or shaping the direction of the industry, there are several categories designed to recognise exactly that.

Recognition That Reflects Scale and Responsibility

Larger organisations play a critical role in setting standards across the sector. From safety and sustainability, to people development and project delivery, the impact of your work goes far beyond individual sites.

The Trades Awards recognise this by focusing on: • Leadership across teams and supply chains • Delivery of complex, high-value projects • Long-term impact on communities and the industry • Innovation in how construction is planned and delivered

Categories to Consider Entering

1) Construction Project of the Year

This is one of the most prestigious awards of the evening. It recognises projects that demonstrate excellence across: • Design and execution • Innovation and problem solving • Sustainability and efficiency • Impact on the community or wider industry

For Tier 1 contractors and larger firms, this is an opportunity to showcase flagship projects and the teams behind them.

2) Outstanding Construction Business

This category recognises overall business performance and leadership. Judges are looking for: • Strong management and leadership • Consistent delivery of high-quality work • Business growth and stability • Positive contribution to the wider industry It’s an opportunity to demonstrate not just what you build, but how you run your business.

3) Construction Consultancy of the Year

For consultancies and professional services, this category highlights the value of expertise and guidance in delivering successful projects.

It recognises: • Technical knowledge • Innovative solutions • Strong client relationships • Effective project delivery

A strong category for businesses influencing projects from concept through to completion.

4) Health, Safety, and Wellbeing

This category reflects one of the most important priorities across the industry.

It recognises organisations that: • Lead on health and safety standards • Support employee wellbeing • Take a proactive approach to risk and prevention

For larger organisations, this is an opportunity to demonstrate leadership and set the benchmark for others.

Why Larger Businesses Should Enter

For many larger organisations, the value of entering goes beyond the award itself.

It provides an opportunity to: • Showcase major projects and achievements • Recognise and reward internal teams • Strengthen employer brand and attract talent • Demonstrate leadership within the regional industry

It also reinforces your role as a business that is helping shape the future of construction, and highlighting the incredible opportunities within the area.

A Level Playing Field

While the scale of projects may differ across categories, the judging process is designed to ensure fairness and credibility. Every entry is assessed against clear criteria, with finalists invited to present directly to judges. This ensures that recognition is based on merit, evidence, and impact, not size alone.

Be Part of the Industry Conversation

The Trades Awards are about bringing the industry together. For larger businesses, this is an opportunity to: • Lead by example • Support the wider industry • Connect with peers, partners, and future talent

Ready to Enter?

If your business is delivering industry-changing projects in the North East, leading teams, and making an impact, this is your opportunity to be recognised. Start your application today.