This week see's the penultimate stage in the judging process for the Made In Bury Business Awards 2017.

Earlier this year a diverse range of businesses from Bury set out on the journey that would, in some cases, bring them out of their comfort zone and face new challenges. The first, to make the decision to do something different, to push themselves and to apply for the awards themselves. Then to filling in the application forms - for some this has been an eye opener and in many more ways than one.

In some cases the sheer process of applying has made them stand back and think about their business from a totally different perspective.
Too many times a business can become so engrossed in their actions in the business itself that they sometimes stop seeing the bigger picture.
Taking that step to apply for the awards has had a great impact on a number of applicants, and for the better.

For those who made it through to the final six, huge congratulations. For those who were pipped at the post this year, we can only say please do not by any stretch of the means be disillusioned. Judges feedback has stated that for many categories, the decision was incredibly tough and the caliber this year has certainly been fantastic.
2018 is a new year and 12 months is a long time for change - next year could be your year. Start thinking now, it could be you.

This Friday 13th will be a lucky day for many Bury businesses, for it is the day that the final scores will be submitted.
Each shortlisted candidate will meet with a panel of judges at the Village Hotel, Bury to make their final presentation, this time verbally, and for the judges to ask their questions to each candidate.

At the end of the meet and greet session, final decisions will have been made based on a specific scoring system, 60% pre determined from the initial application and 40% from the meet and greet.

No one will know the outcome until 23rd November, the night of the awards themselves where all will be revealed!

We can't wait but for now we want to wish each and every person the very best of luck on Friday. Believe in yourself, show your true passion and enthusiasm and you will sell yourself.
We have some incredible businesses here in Bury from sole traders to multi-nationals and we're proud to be able to recognise them through such an amazing awards.

Results will be revealed as they happen on the 23rd November so watch this space (Twitter or Facebook) as we share with you Bury's success stories!