Harley Street Business Improvement District (BID) has been named co-winner of the University of Westminster's Local Community Partner Award 2026, recognising its work supporting students and strengthening links between the University and the local business community.
The award forms part of the University’s annual Partnership and Impact Awards, which celebrate organisations and individuals who make a positive contribution to the Westminster community and create meaningful opportunities for students. Harley Street BID shared the award with the Sir Simon Milton Foundation.
Established in 2022, Harley Street BID is a not-for-profit organisation that brings together businesses, landowners, medical organisations, charities and community groups across Marylebone and Harley Street. The BID works to support local initiatives, encourage economic growth and enhance the area’s reputation as a leading destination for healthcare and business.
The University recognised Harley Street BID for the strong partnership it has developed with Westminster and its commitment to connecting students with local businesses and industry professionals.
Over the past few years, the BID and its members have supported a range of student-focused activities, including mentoring, workshops, leadership programmes, volunteering opportunities and networking events. Business leaders from across the district have shared their experience with students, helping them gain valuable insight into the world of work and build professional connections.
The BID has also helped raise awareness of the University’s activities among its members, creating new opportunities for collaboration between students, staff and local organisations.
Nicki Palmer, Director of Harley Street BID, said:
“I’m delighted that Harley Street BID has been recognised as the co-winner of the University of Westminster’s Local Community Partner Award.
“Building strong partnerships that connect education, business and our local community is incredibly important to us, and I’m proud of what we have achieved together. We are so fortunate to have the University within our footprint and I’d like to thank the University for this recognition.
“Our members have been incredibly generous with their time, sharing their expertise through mentoring, workshops and leadership programmes, and helping students develop skills, confidence and professional networks. We look forward to building on this partnership and creating even more opportunities in the future.”
The University said Harley Street BID had gone above and beyond in supporting student success, from facilitating industry engagement and networking opportunities to helping graduates connect with potential employers.
The award recognises the important role that partnerships between education and business can play in helping students prepare for their future careers while strengthening connections across the local community.
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