The organisers of the Oldham Business Awards have unveiled the shortlist for this year’s ceremony, with more than 30 businesses and individuals competing across 12 categories. Now in its 18th year, the awards aim to celebrate commercial success in the borough and the wider contribution firms make to the town’s social life.
Three new awards shine a spotlight on community and sustainability
Organisers say three new categories — Sustainable Innovation, Heart of the High Street and Community Impact Award — have been introduced to broaden the scope of recognition and reflect changing priorities among local firms.
“The Oldham Business Awards were established to recognise and reward excellence, acumen and entrepreneurial spirit among the Oldham business community and to celebrate the most inspiring organisations and business individuals,”
The quotation above was spoken by David Wadsworth, chair of the awards and founder of Lees-based Cornerstone Design and Marketing. He also highlighted the event’s role in showcasing firms that are taking practical steps on sustainability and deepening ties with local residents.
Fundraising and community partnerships remain central
Beyond plaudits for commercial achievement, the awards have a charitable dimension. The local business community has raised nearly £70,000 for charities over time, and this year the organisers supported two named causes during the shortlist announcement.
- Mahdlo Youth Zone — supported through the awards’ fundraising activity
- Dr Kershaw’s Hospice — another beneficiary, with local firms donating to causes
- More than 30 finalists across 12 award categories
At the announcement event, the organisers reported that businesses involved this year had donated in excess of £4,600 to each of those charities, underlining the awards’ community focus as well as its commercial one.
Event details and local significance
The winners will be revealed on Friday 2 October at the Queen Elizabeth Hall in Oldham. The awards are run by a steering group made up of local volunteers and business leaders who judge entries and help organise the ceremony.
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Edition | 18th year |
| Finalists | 30+ across 12 categories |
| New categories | Sustainable Innovation; Heart of the High Street; Community Impact |
| Charity donations this year | £4,600+ to Mahdlo Youth Zone and Dr Kershaw’s Hospice |
The awards provide a platform for small and medium-sized firms across the borough, including a category for Business of the Year under £1 million. The judging and ceremony give local businesses a chance to be publicly recognised and to network with peers and potential customers.
Organisers say the awards not only honour commercial achievement but also aim to “celebrate and shout about” the borough’s collective accomplishments, through volunteer-led efforts and partnerships that support Oldham’s civic life.
Further details on the full list of finalists and how to attend the presentation evening are expected from the organisers in the weeks ahead.
