The Association of Event Venues has launched a new Emerging Talent Award, open to those in the first one to five years of their career at AEV member venues.

The award recognises individuals across all venue departments – including catering, commercial, event management, operations, sustainability and venue production – who demonstrate “exceptional promise, creativity and commitment to the events industry”.

AEV members may submit up to three nominations per venue, with up to five individuals forming the Class of 2026.

Winners will receive a complimentary pass to the AEV annual conference, access to a mentor from the AEV board or conference steering group, and invitations to board and venue visits.

The closing date for entries is 18 September. The Class of 2026 will be announced at the AEV annual conference at ICC Olympia on 26 November 2026.

Rachel Parker, CEO of the AEV, said: “We are really excited to introduce the Emerging Talent Award – it’s a new venture for us at AEV and we are looking forward to celebrating members who are demonstrating the best in the venue sector.

“The winners will receive a complimentary pass to join us at our conference in addition to access to a mentor from our board or conference steering group, and special board and venue visits. Our members always enjoy the strong networking connections and valuable learning opportunities our association brings.”