About

It's a celebration that we believe should not be put on hold the way the rest of our lives have been, especially at a time when these entrepreneurs who put everything on the line to realise their dream are struggling. We are celebrating their journey and achievements.

Are you the Havana Club Bar Entrepreneur 2020?

You're someone who owns or part-owns at least one bar. More than that, you're an adventurous visionary who is defining the way people socialise and experience drinks today. Not afraid to take risks and challenge industry norms, you're fuelled by passion and determination. You've fought to get where you are and you're optimistic in the face of challenges. Commercially successful and ahead of the curve, you're ambitious for yourself, your team and your wider community.

Who is eligible?

To be eligible, nominees must be owner or part-owner with a minimum of a 5% stake in at least one bar. The exception is for nominees applying for the 'One to Watch' category. It's not essential to stock Havana Club in your bar.

What are the judges looking for?

In a nutshell, our judges will be seeking to spot outstanding contributions to the drinks industry from a bar entrepreneur.

Passion, ambition, determination and success...these are all entrepreneurial characteristics that the judges will be looking for you to demonstrate. But also, your story: how you came to become a bar entrepreneur, what drives you, the risks you've taken and the obstacles you've overcome. And, the future. What do you aspire to do next, what's your vision for yourself, your team and community, and why will you be successful in achieving it?

The prize

In light of the extraordinary challenges bar entrepreneurs are facing due to the global Covid crisis, the winners of these awards will be offered cash prizes to invest into their bars and support their efforts at this difficult time.

Find out more about the prize.

Who's behind the awards?

The Havana Club Bar Entrepreneur Awards are supported by Havana Club International, with a belief that the people behind successful bars should be recognised and celebrated, not only those behind the bar each night but those in the background without whom the bar industry would not be as vibrant and forward-thinking as it is.

Havana Club International is dedicated to supporting and recognising entrepreneurs in the bar industry and in addition to the Awards, they will be hosting special events to bring together passionate, like-minded entrepreneurs. Keep your eye on this space for more upcoming events and opportunities.