When we’re out and about, we’re hearing the same thing when we recommend Wigan Business Awards categories to businesses like yours:
“I didn’t think I was the type of business who could enter…” or
“I didn’t realise that category applied to me!”
If that sounds familiar, you’re not alone—and we’re here to change that.
The Wigan Business Awards are all about celebrating the full spectrum of talent, creativity and hard work in our local area. You don’t need to have a huge team, fancy premises or a shiny PR machine. If you’re proud of what you do, there is a category that fits.
And in fact, some of our more specialist categories might actually suit you better than broad titles like Micro Business of the Year or Wigan’s Business of the Year. They’re designed to recognise specific areas of excellence—like investing in people, leading on sustainability, or being a brilliant freelancer.
So, if you’re unsure where you fit in, here are 7 Wigan Business Awards categories that might just surprise you…
1️⃣ Freelancer of the Year
Think this one’s just for sole traders? Think again.
This category is open to anyone working independently, whether you’re self-employed, a sole trader, or even a director of a limited company with no employees. If you’re running the show yourself, this category was made for you.
✅ Perfect for:
- Graphic designers, content creators, and consultants.
- Coaches, virtual assistants, and copywriters.
- Freelance tradespeople.
- Solo Ltd company directors.
You might not have a team behind you—but you’re still making a serious impact. This is your moment to be recognised for the results you deliver, the clients you support, and the passion you bring to your work.
2️⃣ Trade Business of the Year
This isn’t just for large construction firms—this award is open to any business working in the trades, no matter the size. Whether you’re running a tight team of five or coordinating multiple contracts across the region, if your work is built on skill, quality and reputation, this one’s for you.
✅ Perfect for:
- Plumbers, electricians, joiners, and builders.
- Decorators, landscapers, and glaziers.
- Trade suppliers and service providers.
If your business is built on hands-on work and happy customers, don’t overlook this category—it could be a better fit than a general “small business” title.
3️⃣ Engineering & Manufacturing Business of the Year
This award celebrates businesses of all sizes making waves in engineering or manufacturing—whether through innovation, efficiency, or industry leadership.
It’s open to companies developing new processes, creating standout products, or driving growth through practical, measurable impact.
✅ Perfect for:
- Businesses maintaining road networks.
- Furniture and textile suppliers for hospitality.
- Makers of 3D printers or precision tools.
- Engineering decarbonised heating systems.
- Manufacturers of candles, pharmaceuticals or packaging.
If you’re creating, building, or producing with purpose—this category could suit you better than a generic business award.
4️⃣ Sustainability Champion
You don’t need to be a fully carbon-neutral business to enter this category. The Sustainability Champion Award is designed to celebrate those taking meaningful steps toward a greener future—no matter where you’re starting from.
Whether you’re making small changes in your operations or leading the way in environmental impact, your efforts deserve to be seen.
✅ Perfect for:
- Eco-conscious product businesses.
- Cafés or retailers reducing waste.
- Green energy providers and installers.
- Companies improving recycling, energy use or supply chain practices.
- Organisations raising awareness or inspiring change.
If you’ve taken action that makes a difference to your community—or the planet—this award could be a great fit.
5️⃣ Skills Investment Excellence
This category is all about how you support and develop people, not how many employees you have. Whether you’re mentoring young talent, supporting team development, or offering hands-on training, this award recognises businesses that are committed to growing others.
✅ Perfect for:
- Businesses offering apprenticeships or training placements.
- Companies funding qualifications or courses.
- SMEs with structured onboarding or internal development.
- Organisations running mentoring or leadership programmes.
If you’re helping others to build a future through learning, this category may be more relevant than something broader like “Small Business of the Year.”
6️⃣ Employer of the Year
This one’s not just for big companies with big HR departments. It’s for any business—large or small—that genuinely puts its people first.
From flexible working to mental health support, from team culture to leadership style, this award is about creating a place where people feel valued.
✅ Perfect for:
- SMEs with strong team values.
- Employers offering development, inclusion, or wellbeing initiatives.
- Companies that go the extra mile for their staff.
You don’t need to tick every box—just show us how and why your team loves being part of your business.
7️⃣ Employee of the Year
Sometimes it’s the people on the ground who make the biggest difference. This award celebrates individual team members who consistently go above and beyond.
✅ Perfect for:
- Customer service stars.
- Quiet heroes who keep things running.
- Employees who bring creativity, resilience, or leadership.
- Anyone who’s made a real difference to the business or its people.
If someone in your business deserves a proper shoutout—this is how to give them the recognition they’ve earned.
🏆 So… which one sounds like you?
We get it—entering an award can feel daunting. But these categories are here to celebrate real businesses doing great things in Wigan. If you’re not sure where you fit, chances are… you already do.
Entries close at midnight on Monday 30th June—so now’s the time to get started.
Need help with your entry? We’re running free workshops to guide you through the process.
📅 Find a workshop HERE.
✍️ Start your entry: HERE.
Let’s make 2025 your year to shine. 🌟
