She is line for a prestigious award

A Doncasterballoon entrepreneur has been shortlisted for a prestigious nationwide business award.

Julia Sikora, owner of AirBliss Balloons has been named as a finalist for Female Entrepreneur of the Year at The UK Small Business Awards 2026, a national celebration of UK small business success.

AirBliss Balloons is an independent Doncaster business specialising exclusively in handmade, personalised Bobo balloons for celebrations and special occasions.

Each balloon is created by hand with a focus on creativity, careful finishing and a personal service for every customer.

The recognition celebrates Julia’s dedication to building and developing a small creative business and the care that goes into every handmade order.

A spokesperson for The UK Small Business Awards said: “The standard of entries this year has been incredibly high. Each finalist has demonstrated an exceptional level of dedication and achievement, representing the very best of UK small businesses.”

Julia said: “I am incredibly honoured and proud to be recognised as a finalist for Female Entrepreneur of the Year. AirBliss Balloons has grown from my love of creating handmade Bobo balloons and making something special for people’s celebrations.”

“As a small local business, so much time, care and hard work goes into every single order. To have that recognised on a national level means an incredible amount to me. I am also very grateful to all of my customers in Doncaster and the surrounding areas whose orders, recommendations and support have helped AirBliss Balloons grow.”

“To now be representing Doncaster as a finalist at a national awards ceremony is something I am extremely proud of.”

The UK Small Business Awards will take place on 19 December 2026 at The Eastside Rooms in Birmingham, where finalists from across the UK will come together as the National Top 10 are revealed live on stage and live-streamed worldwide.