The spotlight shone brightly on corporate sustainability as the winners of the Corporate Sustainability Award 2023 were unveiled during the ceremony held at Tbilisi’s Rustaveli Theatre on October 12, 2023. This prestigious event was made possible through the generous support of the Government of Sweden, USAID’s Civil Society Engagement Program, and the Council of Europe Office, underlining the global commitment to sustainable business practices and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
This year, the competition reviewed applications in two distinct categories: large businesses and small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). A diverse panel of judges, consisting of both Georgian and international experts, carefully scrutinized the submissions. The winners, representing a wide range of industries and sectors, were revealed in several significant SDG categories:
SDG4 – Quality Education:
In the Large Business Category, TBC Bank-TBC IT Academy emerged as the victor, showcasing its dedication to promoting quality education.
Meanwhile, in the SME Category, Micro Business Capital was recognized for its exceptional work in promoting financial education among young people.
SDG7 – Affordable and Clean Energy:
Procredit Bank, Georgia was the triumphant entry in the Large Business Category, celebrated for its Electric Car Promotion and Infrastructure Development Project.
Georgian Renewable Power Operations was lauded in the SME Category for its efforts, particularly the Mestiachala Hydropower Plant, in advancing clean energy solutions.
SDG8 – Decent Work and Economic Growth:
In the Large Business Category, Tegeta Holding’s commitment to social enterprises earned them a well-deserved victory.
The Biltmore Tbilisi Hotel took the lead in the SME Category, recognized for its contributions in empowering the workforce and driving economic growth.
SDG10 – Reduced Inequality:
MFO Crystal was acknowledged in the Large Business Category for its dedication to Women’s Empowerment, a crucial step in reducing inequalities.
EY Georgia was celebrated in the SME Category, notably for its “Opportunity 4All” initiative aimed at creating a more equitable society.
SDG12 – Sustainable Consumption and Production:
Tegeta Holding once again shone, this time in the Large Business Category for their outstanding commitment to sustainability.
Udanbno Group, a standout in the SME Business Category, demonstrated excellence in regenerative transition with its Udabno Regenerative Transition project.
SDG17 – Partnership for Sustainable Development:
In the Large Business Category, TBC Bank and its partners were recognized for their role in fostering green business opportunities.
Veli. Store and Supergmiri emerged as champions in the SME Category, showcasing their commitment to sustainable partnerships.
In addition to these awards, the ceremony also presented the SDG Pioneer Award. Natika Berdzuli, Head of Strategic Communications at Tegeta Holding, and Eter Chachibaia, Chief Operating Officer at MBC, were recognized for their exceptional efforts in championing the SDGs.
The awards were presented by esteemed individuals, including representatives from USAID, the Swedish International Development Agency, and various ambassadors and leaders in the field of sustainability.
The ceremony was a testament to the growing significance of corporate sustainability, underlining the role of businesses in achieving the SDGs. It showcased that corporate responsibility and sustainability are not just buzzwords but essential forces for positive change. These remarkable winners inspire us all to work toward a more sustainable, equitable, and prosperous future for our world.
