The finalists have been announced for this year's Scottish Impact Awards, with organisations from across the country making it onto an extensive shortlist of contenders set to receive recognition for making a measurable contribution to tackling some of the most pressing issues facing society today.
The awards were launched last year and this year the number of entries grew to almost three times the 2024 level, with the Community Impact Award ultimately being split into Micro, Small/Medium and Large Business categories in order to reflect the number and quality of contenders.
Whittling down the entries to the final 47 proved a difficult task for the judges who, after robust discussions, applauded the high quality of submissions across all categories, including the Diversity & Inclusion Leadership Award, sponsored by Diageo. Finalists include Win Scotland (Barclays), Women in Property Scotland and Craighead Care Home, which the judges praised for its "compassionate and practical support for an internationally recruited workforce and innovative initiatives aimed at helping employees settle into both their workplace and local community".
Finalists in the Sustainable Innovation Award category include battery technology specialists Dukosi, who impressed with their cutting-edge technology and forward-thinking approach to sustainability issues, and New College Lanarkshire, which demonstrated effective use of innovation to solve real-world challenges. Meanwhile, contenders in the Wellbeing & Workforce category include Mercat Tours, recognised for its strong focus on supporting employees and maintaining a positive workplace culture, and SSEN Transmission for its significant investment in workforce development.
Within the Climate Action Champion category, Edinburgh International Conference Centre is up against a shortlist that includes Craighall Steading Bed & Breakfast in Fife, demonstrating that businesses of all sizes can make a positive contribution to the fight against climate change.
Standout finalists across the three Community Impact categories include business and social networking organisation Glasgow Girls Club, which demonstrated strong community reach; Cyber and Fraud Centre Scotland, which showcased a strong educational and preventative focus to protect communities; and Edinburgh Airport, recognised for its commitment to supporting neighbouring communities living close to a busy and growing international airport.
The winners will be honoured on Thursday October 1, at the Marriott Hotel in Glasgow, where host Zara Janjua will welcome finalists for an evening of innovation and celebration. Proceedings will commence with a drinks reception and three-course dinner before the formal awards ceremony, after which the evening will be given over to networking and live entertainment.
Edinburgh International Conference Centre (EICC)
Scottish Ethnic Minority Sports Association
Edinburgh International Conference Centre (EICC)
Sabhal Mòr Ostaig, the National Centre for Gaelic Language, Education and Culture
Scottish Asian Counselling Services (SACS)
Scottish Procurement Alliance (SPA) & Eildon Group
Adam Smith Business School, University of Glasgow
University of Stirling and Walking Scotland
