The Armed Forces Community Awards
Sponsors and Partners
A heartfelt thank you to our sponsors and partners for standing with the Armed Forces community and helping make this celebration of service and achievement possible.
Partners & Supporters
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.
In Partnership with
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.
Nominations Partner
“PPL are delighted to be the nominations partner for this year’s inspirational Soldiering On Awards. The Awards shine a light on the incredible levels of determination, resilience and ambition of both individuals and teams in the Armed Forces community. We continue to be amazed and inspired by the stories the awards uncover each year and are proud to be associated with the wider societal contribution of the Military family”
John Mason, CEO, Placing Platform Limited
House of Lords Finalist Reception Partner
“Centrica is delighted to be the key partner of the Finalist’s Reception, Armed Forces Community Awards for the fourth-year running, celebrating an array of exceptional achievements from across the Armed Forces Community. Each year we are in awe of every finalist nominated; the awards shine a light on extraordinary individuals whose dedication, commitment and service inspire us all. Their impact on society and our nation is immeasurable; we’re beyond proud to be part of this exciting period of Forces celebration throughout 2026.”
From Laura Blair, Head of Talent Pathways, Forces & Athletes, Centrica
Data Analytics Partner
“RAND Europe is delighted to continue our commitment to the Soldiering On Awards. Through RAND’s work with ex-serving personnel and their families, we are aware of the huge benefits that recognition and rewards have on this community”
Ruth Harris, Director of Defence and Security, RAND Europe
Communications Partner
“This collaboration brings together two of the UK’s leading technology providers in a shared commitment to champion the Armed Forces community through digital enablement, inclusion, and innovation. The partnership further demonstrates the commitment to the very individuals at the heart of the Soldiering On mission.”
Adele Every, Managing Director - Public Sector, Cisco
Technology Partner
“It’s an honour to be joining forces with Adele and Cisco to support the incredible work of the Soldiering On Awards. Technology plays a vital role in enabling opportunity and inclusion, and we’re excited to bring our capabilities to a partnership that uplifts and celebrates those who have served and continue to make an impact."
Philip Pearson, Public Sector Lead, Computacenter
Venue Partner
CBRE is delighted to be partnering with the Soldiering On Awards, which recognise the extraordinary talent that exists within the Armed Forces community. As an organisation we pride ourselves on supporting communities, so to work with the Soldiering On Awards and help shine a light on those who have served, as well as their families and those who support the community, is an honour.”
Rosie Hutton, Key Initiatives and DE&I Lead – EMEA, CBRE
Drinks Reception Partner
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"“The Armed Forces Community Awards Soldiering On, celebrate stories that truly matter; stories of resilience, determination, and of people who carry the lessons of military service into every aspect of civilian life. Whether in business, charitable work, local communities, or personal journeys, these individuals show that the impact of service endures long after the uniform is set aside. We are proud to support the Reception, not as a symbolic gesture, but as a genuine commitment. For Amazon, and for me personally, this support is about recognising the spirit of those who have served and applauding the values that continue to guide them.””
Emma Morgan, Senior Programme Manager, Global Military Affairs, Amazon
Awards Support
Nominations | Jan - March | ||
Judging | April - June | ||
Finalists Announcement | June | ||
Finalists Reception | 15th July | ||
Awards Night | 17th September |
Award Category Partners
