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What is the Emsley Awards?
The Emsley Awards is an annual competition run by the R17 Group, a holding company of eight businesses across multiple sectors, many of them in offshore wind. Alongside investing in companies locally and nationally, R17 is committed to giving back to the community it grew from.
The awards celebrate the creativity and innovation of young people across Rochdale.
Who the Programme is For
Future Pathways
Investment
For founders actively seeking investment, the programme concludes with the Cohort Close Showcase, where participants will have the opportunity to pitch their business to R17 investors and a wider regional investor network. This provides a clear route into further conversations around funding, strategic support and long-term partnership.
Organic Growth Support
For founders focused on growing organically, the programme offers continued access to the R17 network. This includes introductions to relevant contacts, invitations to future R17 events and the opportunity to stay connected for collaboration, support and potential opportunities as your business continues
to develop.
Programme Structure
Please note that to apply for the programme you must be able to attend all the dates listed below.
Applications Open
Applications open - 22nd December 2025
Application deadline - 16th January 2026
Cohort Partners Selected - 20th January 2026
Cohort Acceptance Announcement - 21st January 2026
Cohort Launch Event
24th January 2026
Hosted at Crown Oil Stadium, Rochdale AFC, as part of R17’s sponsorship of the first game following major remedial works. Cohort partners will be invited alongside local stakeholders, partners and public sector representatives to mark the start of the programme and celebrate ongoing investment in the Rochdale community.
Founder Introductions & Business Overview
29th January 2026
Each business will deliver a short lightning pitch, followed by questions and discussion. This session is focused on understanding each company’s model, ambitions and the key blockers currently limiting growth.
Workshop Session 1 – Challenge Identification
11th February 2026
The first tailored workshop session, designed around the shared and individual challenges identified in Meeting 1. This may include focused support in areas such as marketing, pitching, messaging or commercial clarity.
Workshop Session 2 – Breaking Constraints
25th February 2026
A second tailored workshop session, continuing to address priority growth constraints and building practical next steps founders can implement immediately.
Workshop Session 3 – Feedback & Progress Session
11th March 2026
Cohort partners will share progress, discuss what has been implemented so far, and outline updated plans for the next phase of growth.
Workshop Session 4 – Pitch Deck Discussion
25th March 2026
Founders will present refined pitch decks in preparation for the closing showcase and future external pitching opportunities.
Cohort 1 Showcase Event
3rd April 2026
Hosted at Ebor Street, this closing event will showcase each business through short pitches and informal presentations. Local businesses, partners and potential investors will be invited, creating opportunities for collaboration, follow-on conversations and future investment.
Application Form