Nominations open for 2026 Proud Scotland Awards as search begins for nation’s LGBTQ+ heroes

Scotland has been called to action today as nominations officially open for the 2026 Proud Scotland Awards, the annual celebration recognising the individuals, organisations and allies making an outstanding contribution to LGBTQ+ equality and inclusion.

From Wednesday, 18 February, people across the country are invited to nominate the community champions, grassroots volunteers, inspirational leaders, performers and inclusive employers who have helped shape a fairer and safer Scotland for LGBTQ+ people.

This year’s ceremony will take place in Glasgow on Saturday, 30 May, bringing together changemakers from every corner of Scotland for a powerful night of celebration and recognition. Organisers say they want nominations to reflect the true breadth of LGBTQ+ life across the nation, spanning local projects, national campaigns and everything in between.

The awards feature a wide range of categories, including the Community Champion Award, Community Ally Award, Charity or Group Initiative Award, Performer or Entertainer Award, Creative Arts Award, Sports and Recreation Award, Venue Award, Corporate Ally Award, Corporate Network Group Award, Small Employer Award for organisations with fewer than 500 employees, Large Employer Award, Outstanding Contribution Award, Rising Star Award, Volunteer of the Year Award, LGBTQ+ Role Model Award, Health and Wellbeing Award, Education and Awareness Award and the Media and Visibility Award.

The Proud Scotland Awards aim to shine a spotlight on those helping to build a Scotland where LGBTQ+ people can live openly, safely and proudly, whether through community support, creative expression, workplace inclusion or public advocacy.