The finalists for this year’s Oldham Business Awards have been revealed at a special event at Grains Bar Hotel, with over 30 businesses and individuals shortlisted across 12 categories. The winners will be crowned at a glittering ceremony on Friday 2nd October at the Queen Elizabeth Hall in Oldham.

This year’s awards include three new categories – Sustainable Innovation, Heart of the High Street, and Community Impact Awards – offering even more chances for local firms to shine. The shortlist features a diverse range of businesses from across the borough.

The announcement event took a different format this year, with the entire gathering moved outdoors into the hotel’s stunning grounds to account for the heatwave temperatures.

Now in its 18th year, the Oldham Business Awards recognise the vital role local businesses play in the community. Over the years, the awards have raised nearly £70,000 for local charities, highlighting the borough’s strong entrepreneurial spirit.

David Wadsworth, Chair of the Oldham Business Awards and managing director of Lees-based Cornerstone Design and Marketing, said: “It’s a huge honour to serve as Chair for a second year. I’m proud to have founded my business in Oldham because the borough stands among the best for business development. Our wider business community achieves so much as a collective, and it’s great to come together to celebrate our achievements.”

He added: “We’re also delighted to continue supporting Mahdlo Youth Zone and Dr Kershaw’s Hospice, with over £4,600 donated to each cause this year thanks to the generosity of the business community.”

The awards are supported by headline sponsors Albion House Wealth Management and Oldham Council, along with a host of other sponsors including Pearson Legal, GM Business Growth Hub, Grains Bar Hotel, and Casey. The steering group, made up of volunteers from local businesses, has the challenging task of judging the entries.

In addition to the 12 main categories, the steering group selects nominees for the Special Recognition Award, honouring those who have gone above and beyond in their business activities.

To keep up to date with the awards, visit the Oldham Business Awards website or follow them on social media.