Wigan Business Awards 2026 Open for Entries as Organisers Highlight Growing Value for Sponsors
Nominations and entries for the Wigan Business Awards 2026 are now open, as organisers also invite businesses across Greater Manchester to explore sponsorship opportunities for what has become an award-winning and high-impact campaign.
Following a Marketing Impact Award win for the 2024 campaign at the GMCC Excellence Awards back in September, the Wigan Business Awards saw significant growth throughout 2025, increasing reach, engagement and local investment.
With momentum continuing into 2026, the Awards offer sponsors a powerful platform to align with a trusted, well-established celebration of business success across the Wigan borough.
The Wigan Business Awards recognise businesses, leaders and organisations making a positive contribution locally.
The campaign delivers sustained visibility through digital marketing, press coverage, events and community engagement, offering sponsors far more than a single-night presence.
New for 2026 is the introduction of Wigan’s Businesswoman of the Year, a category created to recognise a founder, director or senior leader who has made an outstanding contribution to Wigan through business success, leadership and positive impact.
The new award reflects the evolving business landscape and strengthens the Awards’ relevance for partners looking to support leadership, enterprise and inclusion.
Nichola Howard, Wigan President for GMCC and co-organiser of the Wigan Business Awards, said:
“Our 2024 campaign winning a Marketing Impact Award gave us confidence that what we’re building really works. In 2025, the campaign grew significantly in reach, engagement and local spend, meaning the value for sponsors is now immense. This is a year-round campaign with real visibility and measurable impact.”
She added:
“We work closely with our sponsors to ensure genuine return on investment, strong brand alignment and meaningful connection with the local business community. Anyone considering sponsorship for 2026 needs to get in touch early.”
Nominations for the Wigan Business Awards 2026 close on Friday 29th May 2026, with award entries closing at midnight on Monday 29th June 2026.
Businesses interested in sponsorship opportunities are invited to contact Nichola directly on 01942 559306 to discuss packages and partnership options.
Further information on the Awards, categories and entry process is available at:
https://wiganbusinessawards.co.uk/
Pictured: Jo Leigh and Nichola Howard from Launch NW Collecting their Marketing Impact Award.