With the Milton Keynes Business Achievement Awards (MKBAA) returning in March 2026, the theme this year could not be more poignant; ‘The Power of Partnerships’. Whilst individual effort can yield results, it is usually when we create partnerships with our peers that we start to unlock even greater potential.
Partnerships create the ability to combine resources and expertise which, collectively, empower the group to achieve more and with greater efficiency. As a city, Milton Keynes can leverage partnership working to help deliver services more efficiently and at a higher quality.
MKBAA has a proud history of setting ambitious themes that reflect the evolving landscape of Milton Keynes, and the 2026 awards arrive at a moment of unprecedented regional momentum. From the expansion of Luton Airport and the arrival of East West Rail to the announcement of plans for a Universal Studios destination resort, the central arc is undergoing a transformation – one that places Milton Keynes and its neighbours at the heart of future opportunity.
Milton Keynes City Council returns as headline sponsor of the awards, a partnership that has stayed firm for over 10 years. Here, Cllr Shanika Mahendran, Cabinet Member for Planning & Placemaking at the council, discusses how working with partners and by joining forces with other organisations, the council can amplify its impact beyond what could be achieved on its own.
Milton Keynes City Council is returning as Headline Sponsor of the MKBAA for 2026, the event is obviously seen as important to the council, why?
MKBAA is a fantastic platform for celebrating the innovation, resil- ience and success of our local business community. We see it as an opportunity to champion economic growth and showcase Milton Keynes as a thriving hub for enterprise. Sponsoring the event reflects our commitment to supporting businesses of all sizes and sectors.
This year’s theme is The Power of Partnerships: Come Together To Achieve More – why does this resonate with the council, particularly at this time?
Collaboration is at the heart of how we deliver services, drive innovation and support inclusive growth. Now more than ever, we need strong partnerships across public, private and voluntary sectors. It’s a timely reminder that we achieve more when we work together.
Working together can help to yield positive results,
with the recent New Towns Taskforce recommending Milton Keynes as one of 12 potential locations, how can partnerships help to move this forward for the benefit of the city?
Being recognised by the New Towns Taskforce is a significant opportunity for Milton Keynes to shape the future of sustainable development. To make the most of this, we’ll continue to work with government, developers and our communities to ensure growth is inclusive and well-planned. Partnerships will be key in securing investment, delivering infrastructure and maintaining our high quality of life.
If Milton Keynes is to fulfil its role as a powerhouse economy within the arc, what kinds of partnerships do you think will be most crucial over the next five to ten years?
Strategic partnerships across a wide range of sectors are essential to drive innovation and skills development. Cross-sector alliances will help us tackle climate goals and ensure inclusive economic participation. Ultimately, it’s about building a connected ecosystem that supports long-term prosperity.
We’re seeing transformative developments like East West Rail, Luton Airport’s expansion, and the proposed Universal Studios resort. How important is regional collaboration to ensuring Milton Keynes benefits fully from these opportunities?
Regional collaboration ensures that Milton Keynes is not just a bystander but a key player in shaping and benefiting from these major developments. By working with neigh- bouring authorities, we can align infrastructure, housing and skills strategies. This joined-up approach maximises regional economic benefits and enhances connectivity for our residents and businesses. It’s a chance to strengthen our role as a regional gateway and economic driver.
The recent Milton Keynes Tech Week showed just how much can be achieved when organisations work together. Within the technology and innovation sectors, how can partnership working be captured and enhanced to increase investment, jobs and the skills base within the city?
Tech Week highlighted the incredible potential of Milton Keynes as a centre for digital innovation and smart city solutions. To build on this, we need to foster deeper collaboration between academia, industry and the public sector. Creating shared innovation spaces, supporting start-ups and aligning education with industry needs will be crucial. These partnerships can attract investment, create high-value jobs and futureproof our local economy.
Entries for MKBAA 2026 are now officially open. There are 16 award categories available and, in addition, the prestigious Business of the Year Award will once again be selected by the independent panel of judges, recognising the standout organisation that has demonstrated excep- tional performance across multiple areas.
Any organisation can enter up to two categories if they have an MK postcode.
For more information, visit their website.
