TV presenter, actress and DJ Denise van Outen has been announced as the host of this year’s Isle of Wight Chamber Business Awards, which take place in just 2 weeks’ time.
The household name will take to the stage at Bembridge Fort on Friday 11th September, leading proceedings as some of the Island’s leading businesses and individuals compete for honours.
Denise has enjoyed a career spanning television, radio, theatre and film, having presented some of Britain’s biggest TV shows and performed both in London’s West End and on Broadway.
More recently, she has developed a successful career as a DJ, performing at festivals and venues across the UK and overseas.
She is no stranger to the Isle of Wight, having previously performed at the Isle of Wight Festival.
Announcing Denise as this year’s host, the Isle of Wight Chamber of Commerce has said:
“We’re delighted to announce Denise van Outen as the host of the Isle of Wight Chamber Business Awards 2026.
“On Friday 11th September, Denise will join us at Bembridge Fort to lead us through one of the biggest nights in the Island’s business calendar, as we celebrate the outstanding businesses, individuals and achievements of 2026.
Article continues below this advertisement “We’re looking forward to Denise joining us as we recognise and celebrate the very best of the Isle of Wight business community.”
More than 35 businesses and organisations have been shortlisted across 15 categories for this year’s awards.
Island Echo is among those hoping to take home a trophy on the night, having been named as a finalist in 2 categories – Business Social Impact and Small Business of the Year. The editorial and commercial team will be present on the night, cheering on all those nominated.
2026 Shortlist
Business Social Impact – Sponsored by Joedan
- WightFibre
- Island Echo
- RPL Construction Ltd
Community Award – Sponsored by Moore (South) LLP
- Isle of Wight Donkey Sanctuary
- Friends of the Animals
- Home-Start Isle of Wight
Creative Impact Award – Sponsored by Medina Publishing
- Robertson Foster Ltd
- The Wight Brand (TVMI Ltd)
- MooksGoo
Customer Service Award – Sponsored by RPL Construction
- Milford Del Support Agency Ltd
- Biscoes Solicitors
- Tolchards Ltd
Employer of the Year – Sponsored by Glanvilles Damant Legal Services
- WightFibre
- Yokogawa Marex
- Biscoes Solicitors
Entrepreneurship Award – Sponsored by Red Funnel
- Wight Coaches Ltd
- Medina Bookshop
- Simplex Accounting Ltd
Environment and Sustainability Award – Sponsored by IFPL
- Isle of Wight Tomatoes
- Ringway Island Roads
- Certas Energy UK Ltd
Growth Business of the Year – Sponsored by WRS
- WightFibre
- Silver Arch Group
- Captiva Homes
Hospitality Business of the Year – Sponsored by Cherry Godfrey
- The Seaview Hotel
- Newclose County Cricket Ground
- The Blacksmiths
Micro Business of the Year – Sponsored by Gurit
- Isle of Wight Studio Glass Ltd
- Newclose County Cricket Ground
- Simplex Accounting
Manufacturing and Export Business of the Year – Sponsored by GKN Aerospace
- IFPL Group Limited
- Diverse Marine
- Power Device UK Limited
Small Business of the Year – Sponsored by Wightlink
- Wight Coaches Ltd
- Island Echo
- Strings Bar & Venue
Start Up Business of the Year – Sponsored by PC Consultants
- JMD Building Consultancy Ltd
- Diamond Adventures Ltd
- Penny Tree Surgery & Landscaping
Technology and Innovation Award – Sponsored by Lifeline Alarms
- IFPL Group Limited
- Marine Data Systems Ltd
- Diverse Marine
Tourism and Leisure Business of the Year – Sponsored by Visit Isle of Wight
- Robin Hill Adventure Park
- Isle of Wight Studio Glass Ltd
- Ventnor Botanic Garden CIC
Training and Development Award – Sponsored by Yokogawa Marex
- Ringway Island Roads Ltd
- Isle of Wight County Press
- Captiva Homes Ltd
The ceremony will also come shortly before a change at the top of the Chamber, with newly appointed Chief Executive Helen Curel set to formally take over from outgoing CEO Rob Johnson following the awards.
