OLDHAM BUSINESS AWARDS
LAUNCH EVENT 2026
Date: Thursday 26th February 2026
Locations: Billingtons, Oldham, OL1 1HY
Doors Open: 5:45pm | Start: 6:30pm
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Event Details
Everything you need to know at a glance – from date and venue to entertainment, schedule, and ticket info.
The Launch Event kicks off this year’s Oldham Business Awards, giving local businesses, entrepreneurs, and community leaders the chance to learn more about the awards, network, and celebrate the local business community.
Local rugby league legend, Terry Flanagan, will be sharing his experiences in leadership, teamwork, and community engagement and as always the night will be hosted by our very own Caroline Whitmore, Entertainment Correspondent for ITV Granada, who will guide the evening and keep the event lively and engaging.
The event is open to local business owners, managers, employees, and anyone interested in connecting with Oldham’s vibrant business network. It’s a great opportunity to meet fellow business leaders and get inspired for the awards season.
Yes! Registration is required to secure your place. Your can register yourself for the event below. Early registration is encouraged as spaces are limited.
Absolutely! The Launch Event is a great chance to meet fellow business owners, entrepreneurs, and community leaders from across Oldham. Attendees can connect, share ideas, and build valuable relationships ahead of the awards season.
Attendees can look forward to networking opportunities, insights from Terry Flanagan, information about award categories and entry processes, and a chance to celebrate the local business community ahead of the main awards ceremony.
“I’m incredibly honoured to receive the Business Person of the Year award. The application process itself was a valuable experience, as it pushed me to reflect on our journey, our values, and the positive impact Cornerstone Estates & Lettings has within Oldham. Being thorough in that process reminded me how far we’ve come and why our work matters, which makes this recognition even more meaningful.”
Shereen Howarth / Business Person of the Year 2024
Take a look back at last year’s Oldham Business Awards Launch Event!
Watch local business leaders come together to celebrate, connect, and kick off the awards season. From inspiring speeches to lively networking, the evening captured the energy, excitement, and community spirit that make Oldham’s business network so strong.
Last year’s launch event
Last year we welcomed more than 100 guests to Billington’s in Oldham, bringing together businesses, sponsors and supporters to officially open entries for the 2025 awards. The evening celebrated the strength and togetherness of Oldham’s business community, with inspiring speeches from keynote speaker Mike Ford and past winners, highlighting leadership, collaboration and the positive impact of the OBAs. The event set the tone for another successful awards year, reinforcing the message that while businesses may move fast alone, they go much further together.
Frequently asked questions
The Oldham Business Awards celebrate local businesses, entrepreneurs, and community leaders who have made a significant impact in Oldham. The event highlights achievements across various sectors, showcasing innovation, growth, and community contribution.
Any business, entrepreneur, or individual based in Oldham or serving the local community can be nominated. Nominations can be submitted by the business itself or by colleagues, clients, or members of the public who want to recognise outstanding achievement.
Nominations can be submitted online through the official Oldham Business Awards website. Each category has specific criteria, and you will be asked to provide details of the nominee’s achievements, impact, and contribution to the community or industry.
The awards ceremony is an annual event, usually taking place in the latter part of the year, usually early October. The exact date and venue will be announced closer to the event and will be shared on the Oldham Business Awards website and social media channels. It’s an evening of networking, celebration, and recognition of local business excellence.
Winners are chosen by the Oldham Business Awards steering group in conjunction with the category sponsors. Together, they review all nominations against the judging criteria to ensure a fair, thorough, and impartial selection process.
Yes! The Oldham Business Awards ceremony is open to all members of the local business community, supporters, and guests. Tickets can be purchased closer to the event, offering you a chance to network, celebrate local achievements, and enjoy the evening’s entertainment.
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Stay up to date with all the latest news and updates from the Oldham Business Awards, where we share exciting announcements, finalist reveals, event highlights and inspiring stories from across the Oldham business community.
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