Nine categories open to all enterprises
Social Enterprise Scotland has revealed its shortlist for the Social Enterprise Awards Scotland 2023.
The awards recognise excellence and outstanding achievements by businesses that reinvest their profits for social and environmental good which demonstrate they’re improving and building a better economy and fairer society.
With a total of nine categories open to all enterprises that operate in Scotland or individuals that work or volunteer in Scotland, the awards present an opportunity to showcase the very best of the sector.
This year, three new categories have been introduced providing further opportunities for social enterprises and those who work with them to be recognised for their impact. These are: Building Diversity, Inclusion, Equity, and Justice; Tech for Good; and Social Enterprise Volunteer Champion.
These are in addition to the existing six award categories, which are: Social Enterprise of the Year Scotland; One to Watch; Buy Social - Market Builder; Health and Social Care; Environmental Social Enterprise; and Social Enterprise Employee Champion.
Kim Wallace, director of membership and policy at Social Enterprise Scotland, said: “There is always much to celebrate about the impact of social enterprise in Scotland at both a local and national level. We were delighted by the quality, diversity, and geographic spread of applications this year with application numbers almost back to pre-pandemic levels.
“This is encouraging as this reflects the resilience, determination, and growth of the social enterprise movement. Our Awards are designed to raise the profile of social enterprises and show that there is another way of doing business. We know that without such fabulous organisations on the ground, this would of course not be possible.
“We want to take this opportunity to celebrate the achievements of our 2023 applicants and the hard work and dedication of all of Scotland’s inspiring social enterprises and social entrepreneurs.”
The winners will be announced at an evening awards ceremony at the Scottish Parliament 26 October hosted by Beatrice Wishart, Scottish Liberal Democrat and Shetland MSP.
A full list of finalists is listed below.
Social Enterprise of the Year Award Category sponsored by Keegan & Pennykid
This award is for a social enterprise that has demonstrated a clear vision, excellence in impact, customer service, and management, plus that little something extra in terms of creativity and innovation.
Isle of Skye Ferry Community Interest Company
One to Watch Award Category sponsored by Bold Studio
A social enterprise that shows early potential and can clearly articulate their future vision, how they are going to achieve it, and how they will drive growth in their business.
Carrick Rugby Football Club (SCIO)
Environmental Award Category sponsored by Circular Communities Scotland
For a social enterprise in the green and environmental sectors that can show a clear, evidenced environmental impact.
Home Basics (Tweeddale) Co Ltd
Building Diversity, Inclusion, Equity, & Justice sponsored by Social Investment Scotland
Social justice is fundamental to the social enterprise movement. This category is open to all social enterprises that are addressing issues around diversity, inclusion, and equity.
Resilience Learning Partnership
Health and Social Care sponsored by The ALLIANCE: The Health and Social Care Alliance Scotland
For a social enterprise in the health and social care sector with excellent vision and strategic direction, clear leadership, evidenced social, environmental, and community impact.
Resilience Learning Partnership
Tech for Good sponsored by Breeze Digital (a Communities Enterprise Group social enterprise)
This award recognises a social enterprise that is using technology to achieve its social impact. This could be through developing a new product or service or enhancing their service delivery.
‘Buy Social’ – Market Builder sponsored by the Social Enterprise Academy
For a social enterprise, public sector body or private sector organisation that has demonstrably made efforts within its own organisation and remit to create more opportunities to buy from social enterprises.
The Good Stuff Network Edinburgh (operated by Edinburgh Social Enterprise)
Circular Communities Scotland Reuse Consortium
Employee Champion
This award recognises an individual working in a social enterprise that goes above and beyond to make a difference.
Joyce Murray, CEO and Founder, Positive Changes Scotland CIC
Lisa Gemmell, Community and Relationship Mentor, Be-inn Unity CIC
Rachel MacPhail, Employability Coordinator, Inspiralba
Rajkiran Atwal, General Manager, Merry-go-round
Volunteer Champion sponsored by Volunteer Scotland
This award recognises an individual volunteering with a social enterprise that goes above and beyond to make a difference.
Cathy Costello, Volunteer & Trustee, Ayr Gaiety Partnership
Janie Conlon, Tartan Volunteer, Grassmarket Community Project
Sandra Hill, Volunteer Mentor, Positive Changes Scotland CIC
Susan Muir, Volunteer Instructor and Charity Trustee, Kanzen Karate
