Entries are now officially open for the KZN Top Business Awards 2026, brought to you by Standard Bank and the Women of Africa Group, and supported by East Coast Radio.
The KZN Top Business Awards celebrate the innovation, resilience, and success that define KwaZulu-Natal’s regional economy. These prestigious awards recognise the businesses and individuals whose leadership and enterprise are driving sustainable growth and transformation across the province.
Rishaad Webster, Provincial Head of Business Banking (KwaZulu‑Natal) at Business and Commercial Banking, Standard Bank South Africa, says that “KwaZulu‑Natal is home to some of South Africa’s most dynamic and resilient businesses and enterprises that continue to innovate, create jobs and anchor the province’s economic growth. At Standard Bank, we are committed to walking this journey with businesses as they start, manage and grow sustainable and future‑fit enterprises. Through our financial solutions, sector expertise and partnership support, we enable businesses to scale with confidence.”
“The KZN Top Business Awards recognise the determination and excellence that define this province’s business community, and we are proud to celebrate the businesses and entrepreneurs who are shaping a more inclusive and competitive economic future for the KwaZulu‑Natal.”
KwaZulu-Natal continues to strengthen its position as a dynamic engine of economic growth in South Africa. From major expansions and efficiency upgrades at the Port of Durban and the Port of Richards Bay, two of Africa’s busiest maritime gateways, to sustained investment in agro-processing, advanced manufacturing, digital innovation, renewable energy, and tourism, the province is capitalising on its strategic location and skilled workforce. Supported by growing special economic zones, infrastructure modernisation, and public–private partnerships, KwaZulu-Natal is increasingly positioned as a hub for trade, innovation, and inclusive development.
Award Categories for the KZN Top Business Awards
The 2026 award categories recognise companies that contribute to the KwaZulu-Natal economy and demonstrate proactive business practices aligned with the principles of King V.
- Standard Bank Client of the Year – Small Enterprise
- Standard Bank Client of the Year – Large Entity
- Manufacturing Sector
- Transport and Logistics Sector
- Franchising Sector
- Family-Owned and Managed Businesses
- Agricultural and Agro-Processing Sector
- Business, Financial and Educational Sector
- Community Upliftment and Improvement
- Renewable Efficiency and Green Initiatives
- Employee Wellness
- Partnership Award
The KZN Top Business Leader’s Award and the WOA KZN Top Business Woman Award are honorary accolades recognising exceptional leadership.
Previous recipients of the KZN Top Business Leader’s Award include:
- Captain Salvatore Sarno, Chairman, Mediterranean Shipping Company South Africa (2025)
- Brian Howarth, Managing Director, Magnet (2024)
- Owen Heffer, Owner, Hollywoodbets (2023)
In 2025, the Women of Africa Group introduced the WOA KZN Top Business Woman Award, recognising outstanding female leadership in business. The inaugural recipient was Nosipho Siwisa-Damasane, a distinguished leader in South Africa’s transport and logistics sector.
In addition, the highly sought-after KwaZulu-Natal Top Brand Award is determined solely through a public poll. Online voting for this category will open in May.
Pria Hassan, CEO of Women of Africa Group, added: “From a Women of Africa perspective, we have seen first-hand how companies that participated last year accelerated their growth and gained opportunities they may not otherwise have had. Supporting the KZN Top Business Awards is therefore about more than just showcasing businesses – it is about recognising the power of a strong brand and creating platforms that open doors.”
Eligibility and Entry Criteria
To be eligible, a company or organisation must have a registered office in KwaZulu-Natal. Each award category has specific judging criteria, and winners will be selected by an independent judging panel based on alignment with these requirements. The overall quality, credibility, and substantiation of each entry will be central to the evaluation process.
To ensure broad representation across the provincial business community, entry is free of charge.
Encouraging participation, Grant Adlam, CEO of KZN Top Business, said: “I encourage all eligible businesses to submit their entries before the closing date of 12 June. This is an opportunity to showcase your achievements, gain well-deserved recognition, and join a prestigious community of business leaders who are shaping the future of our province.”
Finalists and winners will be announced at a gala awards dinner on 16 July 2026.
For further information on categories and entry requirements, visit www.kzntopbusiness.com
