Sandra Garlick MBE announced as a finalist for the inaugural Best SME Awards 2026

The finalists for the prestigious Best SME Awards 2026 have been announced, celebrating the determination, innovation, and leadership of outstanding small and medium-sized businesses from across the UK.

In a year shaped by economic uncertainty, rising costs, rapid technological change, and continued pressure on work–life balance, businesses have demonstrated remarkable resilience.

Many have not only weathered these challenges but have adapted, innovated, and grown, proving their ability to thrive in an increasingly complex and demanding environment.

The judging panel was inspired by the exceptional quality of submissions received across all categories. Judges highlighted the high levels of creativity, strategic thinking, and commercial awareness demonstrated by entrants, with each finalist representing excellence in modern entrepreneurship and purpose-led leadership.

Launched for the first time in 2026, The Best SME Awards were established by the founders of the long-established Best Businesswomen Awards to recognise and celebrate the achievements of small and medium-sized enterprises across all industries. The awards honour business owners who are building successful, sustainable organisations while creating impact, breaking down barriers, and inspiring others.

Sandra Garlck MBE, Founder of Woman Who, has been shortlisted as a finalist in the Best Impact category. Woman Who is celebrating 10 years this year and its mission is the same as it was on day one, “To create more women in business role models to inspire others.”

Debbie Gilbert, founder of The Best SME Awards, said: “This is the first year of these awards, our judges have been incredibly impressed by the calibre of entries. Despite mounting pressures on businesses, from rising costs and funding challenges to navigating economic uncertainty, these finalists have demonstrated resilience, innovation, and strong leadership. The judging panel was truly inspired by the achievements, and we are proud to shine a spotlight on these outstanding SMEs which are the backbone of the UK economy”

Sandra Garlick MBE, founder of Woman Who, said: “I’m usually the one championing others, encouraging them to share their achievements and enter Awards, so to find out that I’m actually a Finalist for the Best Impact Award at the The Best SME Awards is absolutely amazing.

Woman Who is celebrating 10 years this year. That’s a huge achievement, which I’m extremely proud of. However, it’s the impact that’s more important to me during the current economic climate. To date I’ve impacted over 10,000+ women in business to feel more confident, to share their stories, and to be proud of their achievements. I find it incredibly rewarding to encourage others shine in the spotlight.”

The winners will be announced at the Gala Awards Night at Daventry Court Hotel, Daventry, on Friday 24 April 2026, where the Gold Winners in each category will be revealed.