Glasgow’s annual Blythswood Festival brings together major venues of international status showcasing art, music, heritage and design, and a remarkable history of innovation and development.

For the Glasgow Blythswood Festival 2026 – which runs from Friday 1st-17th May – a range of major inaugural Awards are being introduced in four categories, shown below, for Blythswood Festival Awards each of £1,000. Applications are open to individuals or groups based in the Greater Glasgow area, to help their initiatives and support their careers and ideas in the enterprising spirit of the city’s Blythswood. Likewise, the awards can recognise achievement already made.

Entries will be assessed by a panel which includes key partners of the Blythswood Festival committee, and the Awards Ceremony will be on Tuesday 12th May in the prestigious Royal College of Physicians & Surgeons of Glasgow when the Festival will be in full swing.

The categories are set out below, and how to apply now.

The closing date for entries is Wednesday 22nd April. Watch this website and its Facebook page for news.

Business Development

To help your business idea and initiatives grow new opportunities and expand,
creating long-term value for markets, customers, and relationships.

Creative Arts, Design, or Heritage

Creative arts, or design, or heritage can describe how human imagination and cultural expression intersect to shape identity, community, and innovation.

Music or Film

Music or film development can stimulate emotive storytelling, compositions or
performance that convey imagination and creativity.

Health & Wellbeing

People play a powerful role in promoting health and wellbeing by fostering connection, resilience, and access to support, helping individuals or communities through engagement and grassroots initiatives.

Guidance

How would £1,000 make a difference to you and your idea, or project or work?

What measurable difference will your project, product, or work have?

The following headings may relate, partly or in whole:

• Innovation & Creativity
• Uniqueness
• Quality
• Delivery & Performance
• Sustainability

To enter, please complete the application form below (and keep a copy) highlighting which category you are applying for and fully complete each section then submit it when finished. All applications will be acknowledged.

It is possible to apply for a Blythswood Festival Award 2026 in more than one category, but please make a separate application according to category.