Ww joined forces with BusinessCloud, GM Business Growth Hub is proud to shine a light on 125 of Greater Manchester’s most exciting companies across four key sectors: GreenTech; digital, creative and tech; advanced manufacturing and materials; and life sciences. 

These are the four sectors that Greater Manchester has identified as having the most growth and productivity potential for the region. 

The list is open to companies from Greater Manchester’s 10 local authority areas of Bolton; Bury; Manchester; Oldham; Rochdale; Salford; Stockport; Tameside; Trafford; and Wigan. 

Businesses on the list include major GM players like home-grown tech unicorn Matillion, global beauty brand REFY and fashion forward Represent Clothing. As well as startups and growing businesses like password disruptor Zally and green tech focussed Badger Energy.  

Janine Smith, Director of GM Business Growth Hub, said: “It’s made me incredibly proud to be involved in Greater Manchester’s business community.  

“The strength of businesses across the city-region is remarkable, and we’re excited that this list will throw the spotlight on some of the exciting things going on.  

“The response to this list has been incredible – and it was really hard to choose. That’s why we have also included a ‘Ones to Watch’ list.” 

Chris Maguire, executive editor of BusinessCloud, said: “It was an impossible task to restrict the Rising Stars of Business list to just 100 names so the judging panel quickly expanded it to 125 – and still had 30 names for a separate Ones to Watch list! 

“I think it highlights the sheer quality and quantity of companies in Great Manchester. We’ve got a real mix of businesses, ranging from startups all the way up to a unicorn with Matillion. They’re two really exciting lists and congratulations to everyone that was included.”  

Patrick Smith, Found and CEO of Zally, one on the list in “Digital, Creative and Tech” category, said: “It is an honour and a thrill for Zally to be recognised on the GM125 list as one of the most exciting companies in Greater Manchester.  

“Being included on this list is a testament to our team's hard work and dedication, as well as the vibrant tech community in the city. We are proud to be part of Greater Manchester's thriving tech ecosystem and look forward to continuing to innovate and contribute to its growth.” 

Tom Fletcher, Managing Director of Firstplay Dietary Food, one on the list in the “Life Science” category, said: “We are deeply honoured to be nominated as a GM Rising Star.  This recognition is a testament to our team’s dedication and innovative spirit in helping those with restricted diets live fulfilled lives.” 

Adam Thompson, Managing Director of Badger Energy, one on the list in the “Green Tech” category, said: “We were delighted to hear that we have been included in the GM Rising Stars list. Through local collaboration and support coupled with the pro-active and knowledgeable staff at GM Growth Hub we have progressed substantially on our technological and commercial roadmap in the EV Charging sector over the last 2 years. I would like to thank all at GM growth Hub, Our customers and all other stakeholders at this time.”

As the business scene is ever-evolving and prosperous in Great Manchester, there will be a chance for us to update the “GM 125 Rising Stars of Business” list.