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European Private Equity Awards 2026

Recognising the firms and deals shaping European private equity

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FAQs

Everything you need to know before you enter.

About the Awards
What is the European Private Equity Awards and how does it differ to the British Private Equity Awards?
Mergermarket has been running the British Private Equity Awards for over 20 years. This year, we are expanding to cover all of Europe alongside the UK. Our categories remain largely unchanged, they are just open to a wider pool of eligible participants. Submissions should reflect activity in the European market.
Am I eligible to apply?
Any private equity or secondaries manager or advisor operating in the European market is eligible to apply. Submissions should reflect activity in Europe, and deal categories should relate to a European-based target.
Entering
Which awards can I enter?
All categories are open for entries and nominations. They are free to enter.
What is the deadline to enter?
The deadline for written submissions is 27 July 2026.
What timeframe should my submission cover?
Your submission should cover 1 July 2025 to 30 June 2026.
What do I need to submit?
Submissions open on 15 June. Entrants will see a form with questions related to their chosen category. All information submitted is confidential.
Can I add graphics or attachments?
No. Due to volume, attachments are not accepted. You may include links within your submission.
Can I submit in a different format?
No. Only submissions through the online platform will be accepted.
Categories
What are the size definitions for the Manager and Exit categories?
Size definitions apply across both Manager and Exit categories as follows:

Lower Mid-Market: EBITDA below EUR 20m (or local currency equivalent)
Mid-Market: EBITDA EUR 20m to EUR 60m
Large Cap: EBITDA EUR 60m+

For Exit categories, size is assessed at the time of entry.
What firms qualify for the Manager of the Year awards?
Any private equity firm that operates in the European market.
Judging & Results
How are winners determined?
Judges review all entries and compile a shortlist in early September. The shortlist then opens to a public industry vote. Final winners are determined by a combination of the judging panel scores and the public vote.
What are judges looking for?
Evidence of innovation and measurable success. Tie numbers to impact and show how your work improved during the eligible timeframe. Qualitative insight matters as much as data.
What makes a winning submission?
Clear innovation, client focus, and direct relevance to the judging period. Judges disregard vague claims and achievements outside the eligible timeframe.
Can I include client quotes?
Yes, if you have them. They add useful context but are not a requirement.
Confidentiality
Will my submission be made public?
For the public vote, just the name of the advisor, the deal, and/or the manager will be made public. No other detail from the submission will be made public.
Tables & Sponsorship
How do I book a table at the Awards?
Contact Chris Coe for table booking information.
Can I sponsor the Awards?
Yes. Contact Chris Coe for sponsorship details.
Who should I contact with further questions?
Contact Mergermarket's Head of Awards, Rachel Lewis, for any further queries.