Lots of people assume a nomination is a small thing. A quick form, a few kind words, and then you move on with your day. But at Wigan Business Awards, nominations do far more than add a name to a list.
A nomination tells someone that their hard work has been noticed. It tells them they have made an impression. It also tells them they are part of something bigger than their own business bubble.
That is why your nomination matters more than you might think.
It Gives People a Real Confidence Boost
Running a business can feel like constant problem solving. Most days are spent dealing with customers, costs, staffing, admin, and the next thing that needs fixing. Even when things are going well, many business owners do not stop to take stock.
A nomination breaks through that noise. It lands as a moment of recognition. Someone took time out of their day to say, you are doing a great job.
That can be the difference between someone feeling stuck and someone feeling motivated again.
Photo by R-Bowen Photography: The team from My SENsability CIC
It Shines a Light On Businesses Doing Things Properly
Not every great business shouts the loudest. Some of the most impressive work in Wigan and Leigh happens quietly, consistently, and without a big marketing machine behind it.
Nominations help us spot those businesses. They help us see who the community is backing and who is making an impact day to day. They also help us make sure the awards reflect the borough properly, not just the most visible brands.
We Contact The Nominee And Send a Branded Graphic
When we receive a nomination, we review it and make sure it fits the right category. We then contact the nominee to let them know they have been put forward.
We also send a branded nomination graphic, so they can share the news if they want to. Some keep it private, and that is fine too. Others post it proudly, and it becomes a lovely moment for their customers, staff, friends, and family to join in.
Either way, the message lands.
Photo by R-Bowen Photography: Husband and wife duo, Faye and John Haynes from Haynes & Haynes
It Often Becomes The Nudge Someone Needs To Enter
This is the part people do not always realise. A nomination can turn into action.
Every year, we see businesses get nominated and then decide to enter because of it. They might have thought they were not ready or assumed awards were not for them. They might have talked themselves out of it for months.
Then a nomination arrives and changes the conversation. It gives them a reason to back themselves.
It Helps Build The Community We All Want To Be Part Of
Wigan Business Awards is about more than one night. It is about building a community that celebrates effort, resilience, and the real stories behind local businesses.
When you nominate someone, you are contributing to that culture. You are showing that we notice the people who keep going. You are helping create a borough where businesses support each other properly.
Photo by R-Bowen Photography: The ladies from The Bridgeman Centre
Who Should You Nominate?
Nominate the business you recommend to friends without thinking. The team that always shows up. The person who has built something from scratch. Nominate the business that does things the right way, even when it is hard.
If you have ever said, they deserve a shout out, that is your nomination.
Ready To Nominate?
Nominations are open now. If someone comes to mind, do not overthink it. Put them forward and give them that moment.
And if you are reading this thinking, I hope someone nominates me, you can still enter too.
