Every year, the ACO Annual Awards give us the chance to celebrate what our membership does best, providing financial and wellbeing support to individuals, often in the most challenging of circumstances. This year is no different, and we have an exciting addition to the lineup.
Nominations are now open for the ACO Annual Awards 2026, kindly supported by Family Fund Business Services. Whether you want to put forward your whole organisation, a campaign you are proud of, a collaboration that delivered real results, or an individual who deserves recognition, there is a category for you.
A guide to the categories
Charity of the Year (annual income under £1m)
Recognising an ACO member organisation with an annual income of under £1m that has demonstrated outstanding impact in providing financial or wellbeing support to individuals. We are looking for evidence of meaningful outcomes, strong stewardship and dedication that punches well above its weight.
Charity of the Year (annual income £1m–£5m)
For ACO member organisations with an annual income of between £1m and £5m that have shown real impact, innovation or leadership in how they serve their beneficiaries.
Charity of the Year (annual income £5m+)
Recognising the achievements of larger ACO member organisations with an annual income of £5m or above, with a focus on impact, reach and the quality of support provided to individuals.
Campaign of the Year (annual income up to £5m)
Celebrating a specific campaign, initiative or project delivered by an ACO member organisation with an annual income of up to £5m that made a tangible difference: reaching more people, changing behaviour, raising awareness or improving outcomes for those who needed support.
Campaign of the Year (annual income £5m+)
The same focus as above, for organisations with an annual income of £5m or more. Tell us about a campaign that showed creativity, ambition and measurable results.
Commercial Collaboration of the Year
Recognising an ACO member organisation that has formed a successful partnership with a commercial organisation to improve the support available to individuals. We are looking for collaborations that went beyond a transactional relationship and delivered real, lasting value for beneficiaries.
Charity Collaboration of the Year
For ACO member organisations that have worked in partnership with one or more other charities to achieve something neither could have done alone. This category celebrates the power of the network in action: shared resource, shared expertise and shared impact.
Outstanding Achievement Award
This award recognises the continued commitment of an individual within the ACO network who has demonstrated sustained dedication to the sector over an extended period. It is for those whose contribution cannot be measured in a single year but whose ongoing work has made a lasting difference.
Impactful Grant of the Year
Recognising the power of a single grant to change a life. For ACO member organisations that can demonstrate the exceptional impact of a grant made to an individual over the past year.
Charity Leader of the Year
Celebrating an outstanding leader within an ACO member organisation. We are not just looking for seniority; we are looking for leadership that has inspired others, driven positive change and made a real difference to the organisation and the people it serves. Nominations should be submitted by a colleague.
Rising Star of the Year (new for 2026)
A new category for 2026. Recognising an individual working within an ACO member organisation who is making an outstanding contribution to the sector in the early stages of their career. Open to individuals with five years or fewer of experience in the charitable sector.
How to nominate
Nominations must be for a current ACO member organisation for work within the last year, apart from the Outstanding Achievement Award. You can nominate your own organisation, a colleague or another member of the network.
The nominations form is open until Monday 3 August. Shortlisted nominees will be announced on week commencing Monday 17 August, with winners revealed at the Annual Conference on Thursday 17 September.
Submit a nomination here