Entry process and judging criteria

Who can participate?

The Alternative Credit Awards Europe are open to all companies that operate in the alternative credit sector in Europe, including fund managers, specialist lenders and service providers.  

Who can nominate for an award?

You can nominate your own company or another company for an award. You may enter as many categories as you wish.

What is the deadline for entries?

8 May 2026.

What supporting documents are required for nominations?

Supporting documents are not essential, but we encourage entrants to submit case studies and supporting data. For performance-related categories, we strongly encourage entrants to include information on returns.

What is the eligible timeframe for data submissions?

23 February 2025 to 8 May 2026.

How do I submit a nomination?

Please submit your entry online by creating an account here.

What is the word limit for entries?

Please keep entries below 800 words.

Can I edit my nomination after submission?

You can go back into your original submission until the deadline.

Will I receive confirmation of my nomination submission?

You will receive confirmation of your submission. If you do not see this, please get in touch with the team to confirm your entry was received.

Can you give more information on the judging criteria?

Across all categories, the judges will consider:

  • The positive impact that the firm is having on the industry.
  • The expertise of the team.
  • Quality of products/service.

Award applicants are encouraged to submit supporting data and case studies. For performance-related categories, we strongly encourage entrants to include information on returns.

All entries will remain confidential.

How are the winners decided?

A panel of independent judges comprising industry experts, alongside Alternative Credit Investor’s senior editorial team, will assess all entries to compile the shortlist. The winners will then be announced at the awards ceremony.

When will the shortlist be announced?

Late May 2026.

How will I be informed if I am shortlisted?

Our team will be in touch once the shortlist has been announced via our websites and social media channels.

Should I submit one form across multiple categories?

Please submit one form for each category.

The awards ceremony

How can I attend or sponsor the awards ceremony?

The Alternative Credit Awards Europe are the industry’s leading awards event, providing valuable networking opportunities and brand exposure. Click here for more information on sponsorship.

For more information on sponsorship opportunities and table sales, please email sales and marketing manager Tehmeena Khan at tehmeeena@alternativecreditinvestor.com

What is the dress code for the night?

Black tie.

Will there be a live stream of the event?

The event will not be live-streamed. However, there will be a photographer and videographer in attendance to capture the evening.

Can I get a refund if I can’t attend?

Tickets are non-refundable.

Will I receive a physical or digital ticket?

You will not receive a ticket, however you will be required to submit all names of attending guests and dietary requirements ahead of the event.

Are there VIP tickets available?

We have limited availability for premium tables. Click here for more information.

Can I transfer my ticket to someone else?

You are welcome to transfer your place to someone else from the same company but please let the ACI team know so that we can confirm dietary requirements.

Is there parking available at the venue?

There are no car parking facilities on site at The Brewery. The nearest public NCP car park can be found at The Barbican. There is also limited pay and display street parking available.

After the ceremony

Will photos from the event be available?

Photos from the event will be published on the Alternative Credit Investor website (alternativecreditinvestor.com) and in the magazine. Winners are able to obtain a high-res photo of the team receiving the award as part of the winners’ packages offered after the night.

How can I access the winner’s list after the event?

The winner’s list will be published on the Alternative Credit Investor website (alternativecreditinvestor.com), in the magazine and shared on our social media channels.

Our company won an award, how do I get a winner’s logo?

Information will be provided regarding winners’ packages after the event.