TaxSmart Cafe's Best of the Best Entrepreneur Awards 2026 (#BOTB2026)
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Now in its 5th year, #BOTB2026 continues to shine a light on the drive, creativity, and leadership of entrepreneurs shaping Australia’s business landscape.
As part of our "You are not alone. You are awesome!" campaign, this year’s event honours those who lead with purpose—driving growth, championing innovation, advocating for change, mentoring others, and delivering outstanding outcomes. These awards don’t just recognise excellence—they inspire a new generation of entrepreneurs to chase their dreams and redefine what success looks like.
We’re also thrilled to welcome Effie Zahos as our special guest speaker. One of Australia’s most respected personal finance commentators, Effie brings nearly 30 years of experience across banking, media, and financial education. She’s known for simplifying complex money matters and will share practical insights on how entrepreneurs can build financial resilience—both in business and in life.
As part of our "You are not alone. You are awesome!" campaign, this year’s event honours those who lead with purpose—driving growth, championing innovation, advocating for change, mentoring others, and delivering outstanding outcomes. These awards don’t just recognise excellence—they inspire a new generation of entrepreneurs to chase their dreams and redefine what success looks like.
We’re also thrilled to welcome Effie Zahos as our special guest speaker. One of Australia’s most respected personal finance commentators, Effie brings nearly 30 years of experience across banking, media, and financial education. She’s known for simplifying complex money matters and will share practical insights on how entrepreneurs can build financial resilience—both in business and in life.
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Award Categories and Event Key Dates
- #BOTB2026 will recognise outstanding achievements across the following categories, celebrating the drive, resilience, and innovation of small business owners and entrepreneurs.
- 🏆 Learn more about our past winners at #BOTB2022, #BOTB2023, #BOTB2024 and #BOTB2025.
- Outstanding Young Entrepreneur - For entrepreneurs aged 35 and under as at December 2024 demonstrating bold leadership, fresh thinking, and measurable impact.
- Start-up of the Year - For businesses launched from December 2024 onwards, showing strong early momentum and growth potential.
- Rising Star of the Year - Recognising an individual or business that has overcome adversity and continues to grow with resilience and purpose.
- Innovator of the Year - For those driving change through innovation in services, processes, technology, or customer experience.
- Business Mentor of the Year - Celebrating those who uplift others by sharing knowledge, guidance, and inspiration across the business community.
- Advocate of the Year - For individuals or businesses leading with purpose, making a positive impact through advocacy, causes, or community engagement.
- Entrepreneur of the Year - Honouring an entrepreneur with consistent outstanding business outcomes, influence, and impact across their ventures.
Event Registration
Registration is now open . Click this link to secure your seatSubmit your Nomination
Nominations now open via link. Closes 15 March 2026 at 11:59 pm.Finalist Selection
Finalists will be selected by a pool of judges and will be announced on TaxSmart Cafe's Facebook page.Awarding of Winners
Winners will be awarded on 23 May 2026 at the Crown Towers Melbourne.