The Responsible Business Awards seek to recognise and reward firms in Northern Ireland that are embracing the journey to build better workforces, create a sustainable economy and healthy communities. In other words, to be a responsible business. They are open to organisations – large and small – from any sector from across Northern Ireland.
Why enter?
The Responsible Business Awards are our annual celebration and recognition of responsible business, helping to encourage new ways of thinking and inspiring others to take action. Each time a business applies for a Responsible Business Award, it is raising the bar for others.
Winning a responsible business award raises the reputation of your organisation, establishing your business as a great place to work as you take care of your people, the planet and the places where you operate.
The Awards are free to enter and every business, no matter how big or small, can enter one of the nine open categories. Those companies achieving CORE – The Standard for Responsible Business can also apply for the top award, NI Responsible Company of the Year.
If your organisation is acting as a force for good, we want to hear from you!
Awards 2019 Timeline
- Showcase & Share Breakfast – 11 December 2018, Allstate NI
- Closing date for applications – 28 February 2019
- Judging days – 10 and 11 April 2019, Girdwood Community Hub
- Gala night – 30 May 2019, Belfast Waterfront Hall
Sponsorship opportunities are now available. To find out more, please email Lisa McIlvenna or call (028) 9046 0606.
2019 Categories
NI Responsible Company of the Year Award, sponsored by Heron Bros.
For the company that best demonstrates positive impacts across its people, the planet and the places where it operates and advocates the benefits to encourage others to follow
Entry to this category is open only to companies that have achieved CORE: The Standard for Responsible Business and Business in the Community will directly invite all those that are eligible to enter.
Find out more about CORE
Please email Clare Mercer for an application form.
Investing in your Communities Award sponsored by Caterpillar
For the business that best works in partnership with local communities to address long-term social and economic needs
Responsible Digital Innovation Award
For the organisation that best uses innovative, digital solutions to tackle environmental and social challenges.
Download application form
Diversity & Inclusion Award
For the organisation that best demonstrates excellence in creating and developing a diverse and inclusive workplace which offers opportunities for all.
Download application form
Education Partnership Award, sponsored by Allen & Overy
For the organisation that best demonstrates how its actions have helped raise the aspirations and achievements of young people (aged 4-19) through a solid business education partnership.
Download application form
Employability and Jobs Award, sponsored by Belfast Harbour
For the organisation that best removes barriers to work and helps people thrive in meaningful employment.
Download application form
Environmental Leadership Award, sponsored by Arthur Cox
For the organisation that best demonstrates significant commitment and contribution to environmental sustainability in Northern Ireland through an initiative or its activities.
Download application form
Responsible Product/Service Award
Recognising organisations that are developing innovative products or services that inspire responsible customer behaviour and encourage more sustainable lifestyle.
Download application form
One-to-Watch Award, sponsored by Survitec
For a *recently joined* Business in the Community member that has made significant progress in the development and implementation of its CR strategy *This category is open to members who joined from January 2017 onwards only.
Download application form
Wellbeing at Work Award, sponsored by Larne Port 
For the organisation that demonstrates excellence in inspiring and supporting its employees to prioritise their health and wellbeing and embrace positive lifestyle choices.
Download application form
Highlights from 2018:
The UK Responsible Business Awards
Running alongside the awards in Northern Ireland is our UK-wide awards programme. Business in the Community’s UK Responsible Business Awards are the longest-running and most respected awards championing responsible business across the UK and abroad. To find out more, visit www.bitc.org.uk/awards.