Small Business of the Year

RECOGNITION and Entries are now open

THE CLOSING DATE FOR RECOGNITION IS MIDNIGHT ON 10th APRIL 2026

THE CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS IS 23:59PM ON 30th APRIL 2026

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The Small Business of the Year Award recognises the remarkable achievements of local businesses that have demonstrated excellence, innovation, and resilience in the face of challenges. From startups to established enterprises, these small businesses play a vital role in driving economic growth and fostering community engagement. They represent the entrepreneurial spirit and dedication that define the Wigan borough business landscape. This award celebrates their hard work, ingenuity, and contributions to the prosperity of our local business community.

Please note that this category is based on a business having a turnover of up to £5 million.

Award Criteria

In order to enter this category, you must be able to answer the following 5 questions on behalf of your business:

Can you describe the key factors that have contributed to your business’s growth and success over the past year?
How does your business foster a positive workplace culture, and what steps do you take to engage and retain your employees?
In what ways has your business demonstrated innovation, whether in product/service development, operations, or market approach?
Can you share examples of your business’s commitment to corporate social responsibility, sustainability, or community involvement?
What strategies does your business have in place for continued growth, and how do you plan to overcome any challenges or obstacles in the coming year?

Eligibility Criteria:

To be eligible for entry into the Wigan Borough Business Awards 2026, businesses must meet at least one of the following criteria:

Be located within Wigan Borough.
Provide goods or services to Wigan Borough businesses or residents.
Employ a significant number of local residents.
Demonstrate a strong commitment to the borough, such as supporting local charities,
sponsoring community organisations, or actively contributing to the local
economy.

Entries will be assessed based on their impact and involvement within Wigan Borough, ensuring that the awards truly celebrate
those who help make our business community thrive.

To Enter

Nominations and applications must be submitted online through the official Wigan Borough Business Awards website during the designated nomination period. Applications must be made by a person who is able to act on behalf of the company (Director or Senior Manager). Nominations can be made by an individual, and once the nomination has been received, the company nominated will be contacted and should they wish to proceed, they will then be required to apply via the online application.

All applicants will need to accept the terms and conditions on completion of their application. Terms and Conditions can be viewed on the website – Terms & Conditions – Wigan Borough Business Awards

Please note that incomplete or late nominations may not be considered.

All nominations and applications will be treated in the strictest of confidence at all times.

Judging Process

The judging process is conducted by an independent panel of industry experts and professionals.

The decisions of the judges are final, and no correspondence will be entered into regarding the judging process or results.

Results

Winners of each category will be announced at the event, which is being held on Saturday 26th September 2026, from 6.30pm at The Brick Community Stadium, Loire Drive, Wigan, WN5 0UH

Closing Date

The closing date for recognition is 5pm on 10th April 2026 and the closing date for applications is 23:59PM on 30th April 2026. Any nominations or applications submitted after this time will not be accepted.