Now into its sixth year, the prestigious accolade will be presented at TTG's Travel Industry Awards 2026, held at the Roundhouse in Camden on Wednesday 23 September.
Established in tribute to Hays Travel founder John Hays, one of travel’s greatest pioneers, the award recognises true entrepreneurial spirit in the travel sector.
Entrants must be the founder or co-founders of their business and be able to demonstrate how they have innovatively built their company and will deliver sustainable future growth.
Last year’s award was scooped by Latin Routes co-founders Jess Dennison and Martin Johnson, while the 2024 title was claimed by Limitless Travel boss Angus Drummond.
This year’s finalists will soon be interviewed by Dame Irene Hays and a panel of Hays Travel and TTG judges at the agency’s head office in Sunderland.
The winner of the award will also be given access to mentoring and business advice opportunities with Dame Irene and members of the Hays Travel board.
The 2026 finalists are...
Guy Novik, founder and chair, USAirtours
Helen Cannon, founder and CEO, ISON Travel
Steve Witt and Paul Harrison, founders, Not Just Travel
Wendy Wu, founder, Wendy Wu Tours
Final tickets are now on sale for the show-stopping ceremony on 23 September – don’t leave it too late!