NLive Radio has been named Local Radio Station of the Year 2026 – East Midlands at the prestigious SME News Midlands Enterprise Awards 2026, recognising the station’s outstanding contribution to broadcasting, community engagement, local journalism, skills development, and support for Northamptonshire communities.
The award was announced as part of the Midlands Enterprise Awards, which celebrate organisations making a significant impact across the region. SME News described the awards as recognising businesses and organisations that demonstrate excellence, innovation and contributions to their industries and local communities.
NLive Radio, known as “The Station That Loves Northampton”, has become a trusted voice across the county, providing local news, interviews, community information, specialist music programming, and opportunities for people of all ages and backgrounds to develop broadcasting and journalism skills.
Rebecca Steers, Station Manager of NLive Radio, said:
“We’re absolutely delighted to receive this award. It is recognition not just of the station, but of the incredible volunteers, presenters, contributors, supporters and listeners who make NLive Radio what it is.
Every day our volunteers help tell Northampton’s stories, celebrate local success, support charities and community organisations, and provide opportunities for people to learn new skills and gain confidence. This award reflects the passion and dedication of everyone involved with the station and the value that truly local radio brings to our community.”
The award comes at a particularly significant time for the station. Earlier this year, NLive Radio announced that it is transitioning to become an independent community organisation after more than a decade of funding support from the University of Northampton. The university has supported the station since its launch, but changing financial pressures within the higher education sector led to a decision to focus expenditure on educational delivery and the student experience while supporting the station’s independent future.
NLive Radio has since launched a major fundraising appeal to help secure its future, raise funds for new premises, broadcasting equipment, licences, technology upgrades and ongoing operating costs. The station is encouraging listeners to make one-off or regular monthly donations and is asking local businesses and organisations to support the station through advertising and sponsorship opportunities.
Rebecca added:
“Winning this award is fantastic news and demonstrates the impact NLive Radio continues to make across Northamptonshire. However, while we are celebrating this achievement, our future is not yet guaranteed.
We are asking our community to stand with us and help secure the next chapter of NLive Radio. Whether it’s making a donation, becoming a regular supporter, advertising your business, sponsoring a programme, volunteering your time, or simply helping spread the word, every contribution makes a difference.
This award shows what NLive Radio means to Northampton. Now we need Northampton to help ensure we can continue serving local people for many years to come.”
NLive Radio currently reaches thousands of listeners across Northampton and surrounding areas and provides a platform for local charities, community groups, campaign organisations, artists, musicians, businesses and residents. The station also supports volunteer development and local journalism, helping hundreds of people gain valuable media and communication skills.
Anyone wishing to support the station’s fundraising campaign can find out more at www.nliveradio.com/loveus, while local businesses interested in advertising or sponsorship opportunities are encouraged to contact the station directly.
