Long regarded as the ‘Oscars’ of the mortgage industry, the Awards remain the ultimate mark of achievement for the nation’s leading lenders, advisers, networks and building societies. But this year, they have evolved, reflecting the changing shape of the market and the outstanding innovation happening across the core lending landscape.

Mortgage Strategy commercial director James Prosser explains the thinking behind the changes and why this evolution is so important.

“For nearly 25 years, the Mortgage Strategy Awards have been a highlight of the industry calendar, hosted at the Grosvenor House Hotel, a setting that has served us incredibly well. But like the market itself, events need to evolve. Audience expectations, industry culture, and the way we come together have all changed. To stay relevant and continue delivering an experience worthy of the industry we serve, the awards themselves needed to be reimagined not scaled back, but elevated.”

Prosser added that after many conversations with industry leaders and long-standing supporters, it was decided to take a bold step forward. Consequently, in 2026, the Mortgage Strategy Awards will evolve into two distinct celebrations:

• The Mortgage Strategy Awards (May): applauding excellence across mainstream lending, protection, and building societies.
• The Mortgage Strategy Specialist Lending Awards (September): shining a spotlight on the specialist and commercial sectors that are driving some of the most exciting growth and innovation in the market today.

“This approach allows us to give both parts of the industry the focus and respect they deserve, with fewer but better targeted categories per night, more time for recognition, and two premium, five-star events that each feel purposeful, intimate, and true to the Mortgage Strategy heritage.”

Some might say: “The industry doesn’t need more awards.”  Prosser understands this sentiment. But counters: “My view is simple, if nothing changes, nothing changes. These awards have always been about leading, not following, and I believe the only way to keep them meaningful is to evolve them. We’re not adding noise; we’re creating clarity, celebrating excellence in a way that feels more relevant to today’s mortgage landscape.”

He concludes: “This decision wasn’t made lightly, but with conviction and care. I truly believe this evolution will reinvigorate the Mortgage Strategy Awards giving the industry two world-class nights that feel fresh, focused, and worth celebrating.”

The new Mortgage Strategy Award categories for 2026 are

Best Broker for Customer Retention

Best New Broker (under three years)

Best Building Society for Intermediary Lending

Best Lender Innovation

Best Protection Provider

All awards represent the highest standard of excellence, judged through Mortgage Strategy’s rigorous and independent process to ensure that every winner has truly earned their place among the best.

To view all the award categories – click here.

Join us in May 2026 in London for an unforgettable evening as we honour the leaders shaping the future of mainstream lending and protection.

Self-nominations are now open – click here

Entering the Mortgage Strategy Awards is your opportunity to showcase your achievements and stand out among the very best in the industry. Each year, our expert panel of judges, made up of leading figures from across the mortgage sector, carefully review every entry to highlight the innovation, dedication and impact that are shaping the future of the market.

By putting yourself forward, you not only gain the chance to be recognised by respected peers, but also to elevate your profile, celebrate your success with colleagues, and inspire others across the industry.

Premium table packages will be released soon, stay tuned to secure your place at the industry’s most prestigious event.