Entries for the Third Sector Awards, which celebrate the work of charities and the difference they make to society, have opened for 2025.

There are 35 categories rewarding sector partnerships, individual talent and organisational excellence. 

Among these are three new categories: Best Sustainability Initiative, Best Policy Initiative and Financial or Procurement Excellence of the Year. 

Nominations have also opened for the awards judging panel. The form to submit a nomination is available to access here.

The awards continue to include a scheme to spotlight the successes of small, micro, local and ethnic minority-led charities by offering one free-entry place to 15 charities with an annual income of less than £100,000.

The deadline for eligible charities to register interest for an entry through this scheme is 26 March. Interested charities are invited to complete this form.

Successful small and micro charity entrants will be invited to attend a free workshop hosted by Third Sector, which will include practical advice and guidance on submitting a winning entry.

The 2025 Third Sector Awards are sponsored by the insurance company Ansvar.

Lucinda Rouse, acting deputy editor of Third Sector, said: “I encourage you to enter the Third Sector Awards, which recognise the outstanding work of the UK’s charities and the people who make it happen. 

“With an array of categories to choose from, come one, come many for an afternoon celebrating our sector’s greatest achievements.”

The early-bird deadline for entering the awards is 1 May and the shortlist will be released in July.

The awards ceremony will take place in central London in September.

The entry kit can be downloaded here.

More information is available on the Third Sector Awards website.