Key Points
- Over 2,000 applications from local people have been made for the Mayor of Lewisham Business Awards 2026.
- Finalists in 12 categories have been selected by the judges prior to the public voting process commencing.
- The results will be officially announced at a ceremony taking place at the Broadway Theatre, Catford on Wednesday, October 21.
- There is a diverse mix of finalists including pre-school music providers, catering companies, sustainable park-side restaurants and educational support companies.
- Mayor Lian Shrivastava has stated that local businesses are the very heart of the local economy and provide much-needed employment opportunities.
Lewisham (South London News) September 11, 2026— Some of Lewisham’s smallest businesses are celebrating major recognition after being named official finalists in the highly anticipated Mayor of Lewisham Business Awards 2026. The borough-wide initiative has drawn substantial public engagement, underlined by more than 2,000 nominations submitted by local residents. Following an initial evaluation phase where finalists were chosen by a dedicated judging panel, the public voting lines have opened across 12 distinct categories. The ultimate winners are scheduled to be revealed during a live ceremony at the Broadway Theatre in Catford on Wednesday, October 21.
The broad spectrum of shortlisted enterprises highlights the diverse commercial and community landscape thriving across south-east London. Among the recognised names is the long-running preschool music initiative Singalong Sally, which has been shortlisted in the Best in the Creative Sector category. Operating across areas including Catford, Lee, and Hither Green for nearly two decades, founder Sally reflected on the community backing.
As reported by local media coverage, Sally stated that
“I’m really honoured to be nominated as I’m a very small business, it’s just me”.
Expressing gratitude to the families who put her forward, she added that it was “lovely to be part of Lewisham’s early years community” and described the shortlisting as a “welcome boost”.
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Which other local enterprises have achieved finalist status?
Family-run catering company Salters Events has likewise captured public attention, securing double shortlistings in both the Best Online Business and Best Independent Business categories. Speaking on behalf of the team, Robyn Salter emphasised the dedication poured into the enterprise.
As noted in regional reporting, Robyn Salter stated that
“We’re a very small team, we care enormously about the food and service we provide, and recognition like this gives everyone involved a real boost,”
while also highlighting the pride of building the venture “from the ground up” in Lewisham.
Similarly, Kinship Kitchen secured a place as a finalist within the Best Community Contribution category. Known for utilising food-based activities and community initiatives to support local families, a spokesperson for the social enterprise shared their thoughts on the nomination.
As detailed by regional news publications, a spokesperson for Kinship Kitchen stated that
“Having our work recognised in our own community feels incredibly special,”
adding,
“I’m so proud of our small, passionate team and of everything we’ve built together, not just as a business, but as a social enterprise making a real difference to local children, young people and families”.
How are digital and sustainable ventures contributing to the borough?
Digital innovation and eco-friendly practices are equally prominent in this year’s shortlist. SEND Teach, an online organisation providing specialised support for children with special educational needs, was named a finalist in the Best Online Business category. Founder Genevieve McNamara explained how the platform bridges geographical gaps while maintaining local roots.
As highlighted in community news reporting, Genevieve McNamara stated that
“We’re rooted in Lewisham, but being online means we can reach families who might not be able to access support otherwise,”
noting further that
“We’re very grateful for the nomination, to be able to support this community and to see the impact we can make when families and children get the support and education they deserve”.
Meanwhile, in the environmental sector, the park-side restaurant Sylva—situated in Folkestone Gardens, Deptford—earned a finalist spot in the Best Sustainable Business category. Operating in partnership with a London produce supplier to minimise food waste and source seasonal goods, the eatery has become a neighbourhood staple.
Reflecting on their success, a spokesperson for Sylva stated that
“We’re very excited and honoured to be named one of the finalists,”
adding that
“This means so much to us, as we love serving our community, getting to know everyone, and celebrating many milestones together. We’re incredibly grateful for all your support. Thank you all!”
What have local leaders said about the awards?
The vital importance of these independent organisations has been underscored by local civic leadership. Commenting on the resilience and enterprise shown across the borough, Mayor Lian Shrivastava emphasised the economic and social value generated by small business owners.
As documented by council and media updates, Mayor Lian Shrivastava stated that
“Our Lewisham businesses are the lifeblood of our local economy. Whether on our high streets, in our town centres, online or behind the scenes, they create jobs, bring people together and help our communities thrive”.
Background of the Development
The Mayor of Lewisham Business Awards are held annually to acknowledge and celebrate the dynamic commercial network operating across the London Borough of Lewisham. Designed to shine a spotlight on independent cafés, retail shops, digital creators, and community interest groups, the awards rely heavily on grassroots participation. Residents, customers, and suppliers are invited to nominate local entities, generating thousands of submissions each year. Following shortlisting by an expert judging panel, public voting determines the ultimate victors, culminating in a celebratory ceremony at the Broadway Theatre in Catford.
This development is expected to significantly boost morale, visibility, and consumer engagement for the shortlisted independent businesses and small enterprises across Lewisham. For local audiences—including local residents, consumers, and community groups—the high level of public participation reinforces community ties and encourages local patronage, directing much-needed support toward independent traders, sustainable spaces, and grassroots educational services during challenging economic times. The upcoming ceremony at the Broadway Theatre will further cement community pride and validate the social and economic contributions small businesses make to everyday life in south-east London
