The 2026 National Fundraising Awards are now open for nominations. These awards are run by the Chartered Institute of Fundraising. They celebrate the hard work, creativity, and new ideas of people, charities, and organisations that help make life better for communities across the UK.
Anyone working in fundraising can enter. This includes charities, campaigns, businesses, and individuals. The awards are a chance to recognise those who make a real difference in their work.
12 Award Categories to Enter
This year there are 12 award categories. A new category, Fundraising Leader of the Year, has been added to highlight people showing exceptional leadership in fundraising.
The full list of categories includes:
- Charity-Business Relationship of the Year – For partnerships that have made a big impact.
- Fundraising Innovation of the Year – For creative new ideas in fundraising.
- Fundraising Leader of the Year – For outstanding leadership.
- Legacy and In-Memory Campaign of the Year – For campaigns that honour legacies or memory giving.
- Outstanding Contribution to Fundraising – For long-term impact and dedication.
- Fundraising Charity of the Year – For organisations that show great results and creativity.
- Best Supplier to the Fundraising Sector of the Year – For companies supporting charities and fundraisers.
- Fundraiser of the Year – For individuals who have gone above and beyond.
- Fundraising Campaign of the Year – For campaigns that have made a real difference.
- Volunteer Fundraiser of the Year – For volunteers making big contributions.
- Newcomer of the Year – For new fundraisers showing promise.
- Young Fundraiser of the Year – For anyone aged 15 or under who has shown great effort in fundraising.
How to Enter
It is free to enter the awards. You can also submit nominations in more than one category if you wish.
All entries will be reviewed by a judging panel. Shortlisted nominees will be invited to the awards ceremony in London, which will take place in June 2026 during the National Fundraising Convention. Every shortlisted nominee will receive two free tickets to attend the ceremony.
Important Dates
The last date to submit nominations is Monday 15 December 2025 at 23.59.
This is a great opportunity for anyone working in fundraising to be recognised for their dedication and creativity. Whether you work for a small charity, a large campaign, or as an individual fundraiser, these awards are open to everyone in the UK who is making a difference.
