Best Established Black Business Award

For an organisation that is a role model in the following areas:

  • Must have an annual turnover of more than R35 million.
  • Must be more than 50% black owned.
  • Must have been operational for at least three (3) years, be profitable, have an established client base/service, and contribute towards overall transformation in all spheres of the company structure.
  • Must clearly demonstrate its contribution to the skills development of its employees.
  • Must show active involvement of black participants in executive decision-making.
  • Must show how the company has contributed towards enterprise development.
  • Must demonstrate its involvement in socio-economic development initiatives, projects or programmes.
  • Must demonstrate its contribution to the skills development of its employees.
  • Must stand out from other businesses in its ability to implement a sound vision for the future.
  • Must utilise business practices that empower staff and communities.
  • Adherence to good corporate governance and leadership is vital.
  • Must demonstrate leadership in transformation.

New and Innovative Business Award

For a business established in the last 36 months and judged on the following:

  • Must have an annual turnover of less than R5 million.
  • Must be more than 50% black owned.
  • Must have been operational for at least one and a half years and be profitable with an established client base.
  • Must show a commitment to innovation and technological advancement through the development of a product or service. If the service is copyrighted or patented, the nominee will need to hold the patent or copyright on the product or service.
  • Companies operating within a competitive industry and who demonstrate factors of sustainable economic growth and development will have an advantage. Innovation in a relatively unknown or untapped industry would greatly boost the possibility of winning.
  • Adherence to good corporate governance and leadership is vital.

Transformation Champion Award

Bestowed on organisations that are passionately and actively committed to the meaningful and sustainable economic transformation of South Africa and have displayed this through:

  • Improved levels of transformation in ownership and management of the organisation
  • A proven employment equity strategy and figures reflecting a concerted effort to achieve real transformation and not merely compliance
  • This award recognises companies who have demonstrated exemplary policies, strategies, and initiatives that have yielded measurable results in the areas of disability inclusiveness in the workplace, marketplace, and supply chain.

Disability Empowerment Award

The development and roll-out of specialised PDI empowerment and development programmes designed to accelerate organisational leadership transformation, with an emphasis on women, youth, and people with disabilities.

Digital Transformation

The ability to digitally reimaging the business is determined in large part by a clear digital strategy supported by leaders who foster a culture which is able to change and invent the new. While these insights are consistent with prior technological revolutions, what is unique to digital transformation is that risk taking is becoming a cultural norm as more digitally-advanced companies seek new levels of com­petitive advantage. Equally important, employees across all age groups want to work for businesses that are deeply committed to digital progress. Company leaders need to bear this in mind in order to attract and retain the best talent.

Transformation in Sustainability

The Transformation in Sustainability Award recognizes businesses, organizations, or individuals who have made a significant impact in promoting environmental stewardship, social responsibility, and sustainable development. This award celebrates those who lead through innovation, integrating sustainable practices into their operations and demonstrating an unwavering commitment to achieving long-term positive outcomes for society, the economy, and the environment.

Criteria for Nominees:

  • Innovative Sustainability Practices: Evidence of implementing groundbreaking strategies or technologies that promote environmental sustainability and reduce ecological impact.
  • Social Responsibility and Community Impact: Demonstrated commitment to addressing social challenges and fostering community development through sustainable initiatives.
  • Measurable Outcomes: Clear and quantifiable results showcasing the effectiveness of sustainable practices in achieving environmental, social, and economic benefits.
  • Leadership and Advocacy: Proven ability to inspire, lead, and advocate for sustainability within the organization and the broader community.