The Meetings Industry Association (MIA) has announced that nominations are now open for the 2026 miaList, with 14 categories celebrating outstanding contributions to the business meetings and events industry.
A well-established event in the sector’s annual calendar, the miaList celebrates individuals, teams and organisations making a difference. From rising talent to standout venues and initiatives, the awards recognise those who drive innovation and excellence across the industry.
Taking place at the East Midlands Conference Centre on 4 November, this year’s miaList includes the Inspirational Leadership Award. Previously known as the Executive Leader Award, it has been evolved to better reflect the breadth of leadership across the sector and will this year be presented in memory of the late Gail Tomlinson-Short, a respected event professional and long-standing MIA member. The award recognises individuals who demonstrate exceptional leadership, professionalism and dedication within the industry, for which Gail was widely known.
The full list of categories include:
- Event of the Year (Under 300 Delegates)
- Event of the Year (Over 300 Delegates)
- Venue of the Year (Under 300 Delegates)
- Venue of the Year (Over 300 Delegates)
- ESG Initiative
- Inclusive Events Initiative
- Destination Initiative
- Supplier of the Year
- Events & Operations Team of the Year
- Sales & Marketing Team of the Year
- Agency of the Year
- Rising Star Award
- Inspirational Leader of the Year
- miaList Individuals (Members only)
Nominations are welcome from anyone working within the UK’s business meetings and events sector, with the exception of the individual titles, which are exclusive to MIA members. All entries will be assessed by an expert panel of judges spanning all areas of the sector.
Shonali Devereaux, chief executive of the MIA, said: “The miaList is a real highlight of the MIA calendar and a fantastic opportunity to recognise the people and organisations making a difference across our sector. Being nominated is a huge achievement in itself, and it’s always inspiring to see the standard of nominations being put forward and the impact so many are having across our sector.“
Nominations will close at 5pm on 17 July, and the shortlist will be announced on 12 August.
To find out more about the miaList, visit https://www.mia-uk.org/miaList.
Author: Kizzy Allott
Kizzy Allott is Publisher at Event Industry News, where she has been a driving force behind the brand for over a decade. With a deep understanding of the events sector and a passion for storytelling, Kizzy leads the platform’s commercial and content strategy, connecting the industry through news, insights, and meaningful conversations. She is dedicated to championing innovation, amplifying industry voices, and ensuring event professionals stay informed, inspired, and future-focused.
