Burnley Council’s Economy and Development team has been named as a finalist in the prestigious Institute of Economic Development (iED) Annual Awards 2026.
The team has been shortlisted for Team of the Year for the second year running, putting Burnley among some of the leading economic development teams in the country.
The national award recognises exceptional economic development teams which have gone above and beyond to ensure the effective delivery of economic development within their organisations.
Now in their fourth year, the iED Annual Awards celebrate excellence and achievement across economic development, with ten categories recognising outstanding individuals, teams, projects and organisations.
This year’s awards attracted a record number of entries from across the sector, making Burnley’s place among the finalists an especially significant achievement.
It follows the team’s success in reaching the final of the same category in 2025, when Burnley was shortlisted alongside economic development teams from Barnsley, Sefton and Torbay councils.
Councillor Lubna Khan, Burnley Council’s Executive Member for Economy & Development said:
“To be shortlisted for this national award for the second year running is a fantastic achievement and a real testament to the hard work, expertise and commitment of our team.
“Economic development has a hugely important role to play in Burnley’s future. It is about creating the right conditions for businesses to grow, attracting investment, supporting regeneration and making sure new opportunities benefit our residents and communities.
“To receive this recognition from the Institute of Economic Development, alongside other excellent teams from across the country, shows the quality of the work taking place here in Burnley.
“I’m incredibly proud of the team and everyone who works with us to support Burnley’s economy, and we look forward to representing the borough at the awards in November.”
The Institute of Economic Development is the UK’s leading independent professional body representing economic development and regeneration practitioners.
The winners will be announced at the iED Annual Awards Dinner at BMA House in London on Wednesday 18 November 2026.
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