Entries are now open for Let’s Celebrate Towns 2026, a UK-wide competition delivered by Visa and Nationwide, which celebrates the towns helping local businesses and communities to thrive. Five winning towns will each receive a £20,000 grant to support a community-led project or initiative.

Entries are invited from community groups and organisations, local authorities and town councils, MPs and local leaders. One winner will be selected in each of five categories: High Street Revival, Backing Local Business, Protecting Valued Places, Connected Places, and Community Pride. Finalist towns will have the opportunity to attend a national awards ceremony in the Houses of Parliament in London.

The competition aims to recognise towns which are responding to local challenges and building stronger, more resilient local economies. Since launching in 2023, the programme has supported towns across the UK through funding for community-led projects, including high street improvements, cultural activities, and heritage initiatives.

Eligible towns must have a population of 5,000 – 225,000, with only one entry per town permitted in each category.

The closing date for entries is 11:59pm Sunday 25 October 2026.

For further information, including spotlights on previous winners, and how to submit an entry, please visit the competition page.