Freelancers are often the people behind the scenes making things happen.
They support businesses, deliver specialist services, solve problems, create content, manage projects, keep clients moving and bring ideas to life.
Yet, because many freelancers work independently, they can be the first to overlook their own achievements.
The Freelancer of the Year category at the Wigan Business Awards 2026 is here to recognise that work.
It celebrates people who have built strong, sustainable freelance businesses through skill, reliability, creativity and commitment.
Freelancing is Running a Business
There is sometimes a misconception that freelancing is “just working for yourself”.
In reality, freelancers wear every hat imaginable.
They deliver the work, manage clients, market their services, handle finances, build relationships and make decisions every day that shape the future of their business.
There’s no argument, freelancing takes talent, but it also takes discipline, resilience and the ability to recognise the value you bring to your clients.
If you have built a client base, developed your reputation, grown through referrals or created opportunities for yourself through freelance work, that is worth recognising.
You Do Not Need a Big Team to Make a Big Impact
The Wigan Business Awards are not only for companies with offices, teams and big turnover figures.
Some of the most impressive business stories come from individuals who have created something strong from the ground up.
A freelancer might support dozens of businesses behind the scenes.
They might help clients win work, reach new audiences, improve their systems, grow their brand or deliver better services.
That impact matters, even if it is not always visible from the outside.
The Freelancer of the Year category gives independent professionals a chance to step forward and tell that story.
What Judges Will Want to See
A strong freelancer entry should explain what you do, who you work with and why clients choose you.
It should also show evidence of progress.
That might include client feedback, repeat business, growth in income, new services, successful projects, retained clients, collaborations, awards, testimonials or examples of how your work has helped others.
Judges are not looking for perfection. They are looking for clarity, evidence and authenticity.
They want to understand the person behind the business, the journey you have taken and the difference your work makes.
Freelancers Are Part of Wigan’s Business Community
Working independently does not mean working alone.
Freelancers are a vital part of the local economy. They support other businesses, contribute specialist skills and often help organisations access expertise they may not be able to employ full time.
Many freelancers also collaborate with other local suppliers, support community projects, mentor others or create flexible opportunities around family, health or life circumstances.
Those stories deserve to be heard.
Is This Your Category?
If you work for yourself and have built a reputation for delivering excellent work, this category could be for you.
You might be a designer, marketer, consultant, photographer, trainer, bookkeeper, copywriter, coach, creative, IT specialist, project manager or another independent professional.
If clients trust you, recommend you and come back to you, that is a strong sign you have a story worth entering.
Complete Your Wigan Business Awards 2026 Entry
Nominations for the Wigan Business Awards 2026 have now closed, but award entries are still open.
Now is the time to complete your entry and tell the judges why your work deserves recognition.
Award entries close at midnight on Monday 29 June 2026.
Complete your entry or find out more by clicking HERE.
