Welcome to Yorkshire
News • September 18th, 2026
|Exciting developments are happening in Doncaster as local businesses gear up for two significant events that promise to foster growth and recognition in the region. The South Yorkshire International Trade Conference is set to take place on Tuesday, 22 September, followed closely by the much-anticipated 2026 Doncaster Business Awards ceremony on 3rd December. These events highlight the vibrant business community in South Yorkshire and offer opportunities for networking, learning, and celebration.
South Yorkshire International Trade Conference
The South Yorkshire International Trade Conference is making a return this month, inviting businesses from across the region to gather in Sheffield for a day focused on international trade growth. Organised in collaboration with Sheffield Chamber, Doncaster Chamber, and Barnsley and Rotherham Chamber, this conference will take place at the Millennium Gallery and will attract over 150 exporters, first-time traders, and international trade specialists.
This year's conference aims to provide practical guidance for businesses looking to expand their reach beyond the UK. Participants will learn about:
Navigating customs regulations
Understanding emerging free trade agreements
Identifying new markets
Building partnerships overseas
Among the notable speakers will be Oliver Coppard, the Mayor of South Yorkshire, alongside representatives from the British Chambers of Commerce, including Anne-Marie Martin and Steven Lynch MBE. These experts will share their insights and experiences, helping local businesses gain confidence in taking their first steps into international markets.
Dan Fell MBE, Chief Executive of Doncaster Chamber, emphasised the importance of this event:
“South Yorkshire’s story has always been one of connections - rail, road and soon, once again, air. Exporting is the natural next chapter for many of our firms, and the evidence is clear that businesses that trade internationally are more productive, more resilient and grow faster.”
This conference is designed to empower every company, regardless of size, to embrace international trade.
Doncaster Business Awards 2026
On a different note, the 2026 Doncaster Business Awards are set to showcase the best of the best in the local business scene. Recently, the Stage 2 judging took place at Club Doncaster Sports Village, where judges meticulously reviewed entries from various businesses competing across 18 categories. With 93 finalists in the running, the judges were impressed by the high quality and diversity of the entries.
The judging process is rigorous and multi-staged, ensuring that the winners are truly deserving of recognition for their achievements and innovations. This method not only verifies the credibility of the awards but also reflects the strength and integrity of the business community in Doncaster. It highlights the dedication of local professionals who volunteer their time to celebrate the outstanding contributions of their peers.
The winners will be announced at a grand ceremony on 3rd December at Doncaster Racecourse, marking it as the region's biggest celebration of business excellence. Tickets, sponsorship, and advertising opportunities are still available for those interested in being part of this prestigious event.
