NEAA Annual Awards 2026

Driving Excellence, Shaping Futures

We’re thrilled to welcome you to the NEAA Annual Awards Dinner on Friday, 27th March 2026, at the elegant Ramside Hall Hotel, Durham.

This highly anticipated evening shines a spotlight on the outstanding achievements of companies and individuals driving innovation, growth, and excellence across the automotive industry – from dynamic SMEs and future leaders to globally recognised organisations.

This year’s ceremony will honour the sector’s resilience, dedication, and forward-thinking spirit, especially in championing careers, enhancing industry appeal, and nurturing the next generation of automotive talent.

Thanks to the generosity of our award-winning businesses, the NEAA Awards continue to make a lasting impact on STEM education across the region. Since the event’s inception in 2018, an incredible £94,000 has been donated to support STEM initiatives – and in 2026, we’re proud to announce we’ll surpass the £100,000 milestone.

2026 Award Categories are open!! Download the Application Forms here:

• Geoff Ford MBE Apprentice Award, sponsored by Gateshead College
• Graduate Award
• Women Who Inspire in Automotive Award, sponsored by Marelli
• Innovation Award, sponsored by Newcastle University
• Sustainability Award, sponsored by Nissan
• Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion Employer Award
• SME of the Year Award, sponsored by North East IOT
• Outstanding Contribution Award, sponsored by Sunderland City Council

Awards FAQ supporting document

Awards Pack

Join us for an inspiring evening of celebration, connection, and recognition, hosted by acclaimed journalist and passionate skills advocate Charlie Charlton.

Let’s celebrate the best and brightest in the North East’s automotive community – together.

Book your place at the 2026 Awards Dinner

Members Individual: £130 +VAT I Table of 10: £1,300 +VAT
Non-Members Individual: £200 +VAT I Table of 10: £2,000 +VAT

• To pay by invoice and avoid Eventbrite charges, book via the NEAA website here
• Orders can also be secured via email to Laura Gage at: lgage@northeastautomotivealliance.com

Dress Code

• Black tie

If you have any further queries or wish to speak with a member of the NEAA team, please contact enquiries@northeastautomotivealliance.com