BIRMINGHAM, UK - Naidex, the UK’s leading disability event, and Lloyds Bank are proud to announce the return of Elevate – The Disabled Founders Pitch for 2026. Following a successful debut, Lloyds Bank have returned as headline partner for the flagship event, taking place on March 25-26, 2026, at the NEC Birmingham.
This year, the initiative is growing in scale. A brand-new semi-final stage has been introduced to give more entrepreneurs the opportunity to showcase their impact. From the initial applications, 10 businesses will be selected to pitch in person at Lloyds Banking Group offices, Colmore Row, Birmingham, for the live semi-final on 25th February 2026.
Following the semi-finals, 4 finalists will be chosen to compete in the Grand Final, taking place live on the Naidex Main Stage at the NEC Birmingham on 25th March 2026.
Dismantling Barriers Together
This collaboration is about more than just a competition; it’s about creating lasting change. Disabled founders often face systemic barriers, from a lack of funding to limited professional networks. Elevate provides a high-profile platform to showcase innovation, secure expert mentorship, and access the tools needed to succeed.
The initiative follows the success of the inaugural 2025 event, which saw innovative businesses like MIXD Reality, Ability Today, and Bass Therapy reach the finals and demonstrate the immense talent within the disabled founder community.
Disabled or neurodivergent entrepreneurs make up around 25% of the UKs 5.5bn small business population. Lloyds Bank is committed to breaking down barriers and creating opportunities for entrepreneurs and businesses to thrive.
Elevate is a business accelerator designed to remove the obstacles that stand between disabled entrepreneurs and fair access to growth opportunities. It provides a practical pathway for ambitious brands to become successful businesses, driving real progress toward a more inclusive economy
Josh Waddell, Group Commercial Director at Naidex, shared his excitement: "Following the incredible success of our first year, we are thrilled to return with Lloyds Bank for 2026. Elevate is more than a competition; it is a vital partnership designed to empower the disabled community and their allies. By showcasing innovative solutions from disabled-led businesses, we are not just providing a platform—we are driving real progress toward a more inclusive economy.”
Chris Loring, Director of Lending and Executive Ally for Disability at Lloyds Banking Group says: “Elevate reflects our ambition to back talented founders who are driving innovation across the UK, and to make sure they have the access, networks and support they need to scale. We’re proud to be running this programme for a second year and to help spotlight and accelerate the success of disabilityled businesses.”
The Call for Founders
Applications for Elevate 2026 are now officially open. Disabled founders from across the UK are invited to submit their businesses for a chance to take the stage. The initiative seeks to highlight innovation across all sectors, from assistive technology to mainstream consumer goods.
Application Deadline:
15th February 2026
Apply Now: www.naidex.co.uk/elevate
Naidex takes place on 25th- 26th March at the NEC Birmingham and is free to attend. If you would like to meet with the Lloyds Bank team at the event you can visit them on their stand B-N20. Register your free tickets at www.naidex.co.uk