By KLTV Newsdesk –

Community-led news platform recognised for championing local stories and accessible journalism

Huddersfield Hub has been named Eaton Smith LLP’s Business of the Month for June 2026, marking a significant milestone for the community-focused news platform.

Based in Huddersfield, Huddersfield Hub operates as a Community Interest Company and has rapidly established itself as a trusted source of local journalism since its launch in February 2021.

Founded by experienced journalist Martin Shaw, the platform was created in response to the decline of traditional local news outlets, with a mission to deliver reliable, high-quality reporting rooted in the community.

A Vision for Meaningful Local Journalism

Drawing on more than four decades of industry experience, Shaw set out to move away from sensationalist clickbait content and instead prioritise stories that matter to local people.

The website covers a broad spectrum of topics, including local news, charities, grassroots sport, arts, business and events, ensuring a diverse range of voices and stories are represented.

Huddersfield Hub has built a strong and loyal audience, publishing multiple stories each day while maintaining an active and consistent presence across social media platforms.

Judges Praise Community Impact

The judging panel commended the organisation’s commitment to accessible journalism, particularly its decision to operate without a paywall.

Instead, the platform is supported through a voluntary Patron subscription scheme, alongside sponsorship and advertising.

Huddersfield Hub has also played a key role in promoting cultural and community initiatives, working with contributors ranging from historians and journalists to local leaders.

Its reporting has led to tangible outcomes, including increased charitable donations and greater engagement with local events.

Ben Jackson, Partner at Eaton Smith and Chair of the judging panel, commented: “Huddersfield Hub is a fantastic example of how local journalism can evolve while remaining true to its core purpose.

“The impact it has had on the community, particularly in supporting local organisations and telling positive stories, is outstanding.

“It is a very deserving winner of this award.”

‘Making the Headlines’

The organisation is led by Martin, alongside freelance journalist Andy Hirst and a dedicated network of contributors and volunteers.

Despite its small size, Huddersfield Hub continues to produce a high volume of content while expanding its reach across the region.

Reflecting on the award, Martin said: “This is Huddersfield Hub’s first award and it’s great to be recognised.

“The Eaton Smith Business Awards have been going for 30 years now and it’s humbling for Huddersfield Hub to be mentioned in the same breath as some of the incredible businesses who have won this award over the last three decades.

“I have to say it feels a bit strange that instead of writing the headlines, we’re making the headlines and the fact it’s a long-established local award too which makes it all the more special.”

Martin added: “Huddersfield Hub’s readership and reach, both online and on social media, has grown hugely and we’re making a real impact.

“Local journalism has been in decline for many years with falling newspaper sales and a loss of advertising revenue.

“The challenge for Huddersfield Hub was to find a way to fund local journalism that wasn’t all about clickbait headlines and distracting pop-up website adverts that make stories impossible to read.

“Huddersfield Hub’s business model is based on sponsorship, advertising and our Patrons scheme, a £4.99 a month voluntary subscription, and we’d love for more people to support us and help us continue to thrive and grow.

“I’d also like to thank our small team, who punch above their weight every day of the week, and also our loyal roster of sponsors without whom we wouldn’t be here to do what we do fighting the corner for Huddersfield and its community.”

What Comes Next

As a Business of the Month winner, Huddersfield Hub will now be considered for Eaton Smith’s Business of the Year Award 2027, which celebrates outstanding organisations across the region.

Ben Jackson was joined on the judging panel by Emma Sinfield of the Mid Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce and Annie Bradley from the Department for Business and Trade.

About the Award

Eaton Smith’s Business of the Month Award recognises exceptional businesses across Kirklees, Calderdale and Wakefield.

Each month, judges select a winner based on innovation, community impact and overall business success, with all monthly winners automatically shortlisted for the annual Business of the Year Award.

For more information or to apply, visit www.businessofthemonth.co.uk.