Applications for the 2025 Halton Business Awards are now open.

After a sold-out gala dinner in 2024, which drew more than 500 guests, next year's event is expected to match the success.

The awards, a key event in the Halton business calendar, provide an opportunity for local organisations to celebrate achievements and gain recognition.

The 2025 Halton Business Awards Gala Dinner, where the winners will be announced, is set for June 13.

It will recognise the efforts of businesses and entrepreneurs who contribute to the region's economy.

Spanning various categories, the awards allow organisations of all sizes to participate.

The Winners of the Halton Business Awards 2024 (Image: Supplied) The categories include 'Commitment to the Community', 'Manufacturer of the Year', 'Start Up Business of the Year', 'Exporter of the Year' and 'Clean, Green Business of the Year'.

Following its success in 2024, the 'Innovative Business of the Year' category will also be part of this year's awards.

Businesses are encouraged to enter multiple categories to increase their chances of making the shortlist.

Rachael Owen, chief executive at Halton Chamber of Commerce, which organises the awards, said: "These awards are highly sought after and much coveted.

"It’s a fantastic event that brings our local business community together to celebrate their achievements and recognise excellence, with many of our award winners going on to enjoy regional and national awards glory.

"I’m very grateful for the support we receive from businesses invested in the borough and everyone who helps make this event Halton’s number one business celebration of the year."

Previous award winners have included bus and coach company Anthony’s Travel, mortgage support company Carol Smith Mortgage Services and family business Octave Design Services.

The 2024 Outstanding Business of the Year Award was won by Bells Healthcare.

Graham Crews, export sales manager, said: "We were ecstatic to win 'Exporter of the Year' and then completely blown away to receive the top award of 'Outstanding Business of the Year.'

"This recognition from such a prestigious organisation means the world to us.

"It validates our efforts in building a strong foundation for success and reinforces our commitment to excellence."

Halton Business Awards Ceremony (Image: Supplied) According to Mr Crews, the awards have had a significant impact on their business, boosting team morale and attracting new business opportunities.

He added: "In fact, after posting about the awards on LinkedIn, we were contacted by a company in Zimbabwe who are now swiftly progressing with their registration and initial order."

The awards are free to enter and open to all businesses.

Ms Owen said: "I would encourage every organisation to download an application form from our website and get involved.

"It’s a great way of putting your organisation in front of potential customers, employees and supply partners, as well as a fantastic night out with live entertainment, local VIPs, our resident magician and over 450 people celebrating organisational excellence."

The deadline for applications is February 19, 2025.

Application forms can be found on the Chamber’s website, or businesses can call 0333 358 3480 for further information.