Entries Open 26^th Feb 8pm

The next stage of the awards is just around the corner, with entries officially opening for application on 26th February at 8pm. Following an outstanding year that celebrated an inspiring range of creativity, innovation, and excellence, we’re excited to invite a new wave of submissions. This marks the beginning of another exciting chapter, so don’t miss your chance to be part of it. Stay tuned as we count down to applications opening.

Start-Up Business of the Year (Operating for 3yrs or less) 1

Start-Up Business of the Year

This award is available to sponsor!

Launching your own business requires a wide range of skills and qualities (and a fair degree of courage). The winner will be able to demonstrate that from the initial seed of an idea they identified an opportunity in the marketplace; developed, manufactured or sourced a product or service; took this to customers and successfully made sales. The judges will take into consideration sales growth, profit achievement, number of people employed and evidence of a satisfied customer base. To qualify, your business should have been operating as a trading entity for less than 1 year. Tell us what makes your business a contender for this award, what sets your company apart from your rivals and why your business should win this award.

4 Steps to submitting an award winning entry

Get to grips with the four key steps to submitting an award-winning entry for the Oldham Business Awards, with practical tips to help your application stand out.

Read the full guide

Start-Up Business of the Year (Operating for 3yrs or less) 2

Understand the Criteria

Read the category criteria carefully and tailor your entry to directly address what the judges are looking for.

Start-Up Business of the Year (Operating for 3yrs or less) 3

Tell a Compelling Story

Clearly explain your journey, challenges and achievements to bring your success to life.

Start-Up Business of the Year (Operating for 3yrs or less) 4

Be Concise & Clear

Focus on your strongest points and present them in a clear, well-structured and easy-to-read way.

Start-Up Business of the Year (Operating for 3yrs or less) 5

Provide Strong Evidence

Support your claims with measurable results, data or testimonials that demonstrate real impact.

Join our 2026 event sponsors!

Start-Up Business of the Year (Operating for 3yrs or less) 6

Start-Up Business of the Year (Operating for 3yrs or less) 7

Start-Up Business of the Year (Operating for 3yrs or less) 8

Start-Up Business of the Year (Operating for 3yrs or less) 9

Start-Up Business of the Year (Operating for 3yrs or less) 10

Start-Up Business of the Year (Operating for 3yrs or less) 11

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Start-Up Business of the Year (Operating for 3yrs or less) 13

Empower youth futures with your strategic sponsorship

By aligning with the OBA, your organisation plays a pivotal role in driving positive social impact. Our sponsors directly contribute to building resilience, nurturing potential, and opening doors for youth in our communities. Join a network of responsible businesses creating lasting change and showcasing genuine Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) leadership.

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Entries Open 26th Feb 8pm