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 eleven open categories. Those companies achieving CORE – The Standard for Responsible Business can also apply for the top award, NI Responsible Company of the Year.
2020 Awards Timeline
- Open for entries: 1 November 2019
- Showcase & Share Breakfast: 11 November 2019
- Closing date for applications: 28 February 2020
- Judging days: 21 and 22 April 2020
- Gala night: 28 May 2020
2020 Categories
NI Responsible Company of the Year Award, sponsored by Danske Bank
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
2019 Winner: Danske Bank
Age at Work Champion, in partnership with Age NI
For the organisation that best demonstrates its commitment and action to recruit, retrain and retain people 50+
Diversity & Inclusion Award, sponsored by Belfast Harbour
For the organisation that best demonstrates excellence in creating and developing a diverse and inclusive workplace which offers opportunities for all.
2019 Winner: Danske Bank
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.
2019 Winner: Esri Ireland
Employability and Jobs Award, sponsored by George Best Belfast City Airport
For the organisation that best removes barriers to work and helps people thrive in meaningful employment.
2019 Winner: GRAHAM/Farrans Joint Venture
Environmental Leadership Award, sponsored by Heron Bros.
For the organisation that best demonstrates significant commitment and contribution to environmental sustainability in Northern Ireland through an initiative or its activities.
2019 Winner: Ulster University
Investing in your Community Award, sponsored by Arthur Cox
For the business that best works in partnership with local communities to address long-term social and economic needs
2019 Winner: Apex Housing Association
One-to-Watch Award, sponsored by Ciena
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 2018 onwards only.
2019 Winner: ABP Food Group
Responsible Digital Innovation Award, in partnership with Digital DNA
For the organisation that can best demonstrate how it has used digital solutions in a project or initiative that in turn tackle a social or environmental issue.
2019 Winner: Danske Bank
Responsible Product/Service Award, sponsored by Translink
Recognising organisations that are developing innovative products or services that inspire responsible customer behaviour and encourage more sustainable lifestyle.
2019 Winner: Translink
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.
2019 Winner: Danske Bank
If you have trouble downloading the Awards applications, please email Heather Glass.
To find out more, please email Helen Bowman or call (028) 9046 0606.
Highlights from 2019:
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.