The Armed Forces Community Awards
@SoldieringOn 2026
Nominations are Open
Award Categories
In Partnership with
Animal Partnership Award
Honours the unique relationships and companionship provided by animals, and/or the achievements of individuals or organisations engaged with animals that support and empower members of the Armed Forces community. The judging panel will select a shortlist of three entries to progress to the final public vote.
In Partnership with
Employee Champion Award
Recognises an exceptional employee who has made a significant contribution to support members of the Armed Forces community achieve success within civilian roles. Nominees will demonstrate a measurable impact and extraordinary commitment to championing the employability of service leavers, reservists, veterans, spouses, and family members. The nominator must be employed by the same employer as the nominee.
In Partnership with
Education, Training & Development Award
Recognises excellence in the provision of; vocational education, training or skills development. This may be in the fields of preparatory, ongoing or transitional development for members of the wider Armed Forces community. The provision could be delivered by an individual, team or organisation.
In Partnership with
Working Together Award
Honours a group of people, team, or organisation that has demonstrated an enduring commitment to a collaborative approach, engaging with others to support the sector within the wider Armed Forces community.
Supported by
Connecting Society Award
New for 2026, this award honours a team, organisation or community group that demonstrates exceptional commitment to supporting the Armed Forces community. Rooted in a whole-society approach, and built on the values and standards of the Armed Forces, this nomination needs to demonstrate practical, sustained action that brings organisations, communities and family groups together from across our society; strengthening resilience, connection and opportunity for everyone.
In Partnership with
Business Start-Up Award
Recognises an individual or group of individuals linked with the Armed Forces community who have started a successful new business venture within the last two years (since 01 January 2024) and who still retain a minimum of 50% interest in the venture.
In Partnership with
Healthcare and Rehabilitation Award
Recognises a person or team that has demonstrated a major commitment and contribution in support of the physical or mental welfare of serving or former members of the Armed Forces community. This may be through healthcare, therapeutic treatment, or rehabilitation services and support.
In Partnership with
Business Scale-Up Award
Honours an individual or group of individuals linked with the Armed Forces community who have started a successful new business venture more than two years ago (before 01 January 2024) and who still retain a minimum of 50% interest in the venture.
In Partnership with
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Defence Inclusivity Award
Honours the commitment and achievements of an individual, team, or organisation in delivering greater diversity and inclusion within UK Defence and the Armed Forces community.
In Partnership with
Community Impact Award
Recognises a Charity, Social Enterprise, or other Third Sector Organisation that has made a significant positive impact on the lives of specific beneficiary cohorts within the Armed Forces community. This impact should be evidenced within the last three years; since 01 January 2023.
In Partnership with
Inspiration Award
An award to honour an individual's remarkable achievements in work, community, fundraising, or sports and serve as an inspiration to others within the Armed Forces community. The judging panel will select a shortlist of three entries to progress to the final public vote.
In Partnership with
Lifetime Achievement Award
Honours a person whose lifetime of dedicated service has provided a significant contribution in support of the Armed Forces community.