Balance for Business is celebrating another prestigious national award nomination after Business Development Manager Dan Place was shortlisted for Rising Star of the Year at the NACFB Commercial Broker Awards 2026.

Now in their seventh year, the awards recognise the commercial finance brokers setting the benchmark for excellence across the industry. They celebrate the expertise, innovation and professionalism that underpin the intermediary market and are among the sector’s few awards dedicated exclusively to brokers.

This year’s awards attracted a record-breaking 430-plus entries across 26 categories – a 25% increase in submissions compared with last year. Entries were assessed against clearly defined criteria by a panel of 36 expert judges.

Dan has been named as one of ten finalists in the Rising Star of the Year category, sponsored by Shawbrook.

His shortlisting reflects an impressive journey with Balance for Business. Dan joined the company in September 2019 as its first full-time apprentice after studying at Ivybridge Community College. While supporting Balance’s commercial finance specialists, he completed his Level 3 apprenticeship through City College Plymouth in October 2022.

Dan has since progressed to become Business Development Manager for Property Investment and Development. He now manages his own portfolio of clients while also supporting the team with finance applications from initial enquiry through to completion. Read more about Dan and the Balance for Business team.

Dave Ottley, Managing Director of Balance for Business, said:

“Being shortlisted for such a prestigious national award is superb recognition of Dan’s hard work and the progress he has made since joining us as our first full-time apprentice.

“Dan has developed into a highly valued member of the team and is committed to delivering an excellent service for his clients. It is always an honour to be nominated, particularly alongside so many talented people from across the commercial finance industry.

“Congratulations, Dan, from everyone at Balance for Business. This recognition is thoroughly deserved, and we’ll all be keeping our fingers crossed for you.”

This is the fifth time Balance for Business has been shortlisted for a national industry award. The company has previously been named a finalist for Commercial Finance Specialist Distributor of the Year at the Business Moneyfacts Awards on four occasions.

Dan’s latest nomination continues that proud record of national recognition while highlighting Balance for Business’s commitment to developing emerging talent within the commercial finance sector.

Everyone at Balance for Business wishes Dan the very best of luck at the awards.