On July 2, the Tbilisi History Museum ‘Karvasla’ played host to one of the most significant events in Georgia’s business calendar: ‘Georgia’s Responsible Business Awards – Meliora 2024.’ This annual awards ceremony, supported by the European Union, highlights the exemplary efforts of companies dedicated to Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) in Georgia.
The event was a grand affair, attended by representatives from the diplomatic corps, international CSR experts, and key figures from various industries. These leaders came together to celebrate and recognize companies that have made significant strides in implementing sustainable and responsible business practices. The atmosphere was one of anticipation and pride as the best CSR projects and companies of the year were announced.
The Winners: Champions of CSR
The night belonged to the winners, whose projects set new benchmarks for CSR in Georgia. The awards were categorized into nine distinct areas, highlighting different aspects of corporate responsibility.
Here’s a closer look at the champions of the evening:
Green Initiative
Large Company: Tegeta Holding, for their project ‘Green Standard.’
SME: Polyvim, for their project ‘Green Initiative.’
Responsible Employer
Large Company: Basisbank, for their project ‘Responsible Employer.’
Supporting Communities
Large Company: Hilton Batumi, for their project ‘Supporting Communities.’
SME: Clip-art, for their project ‘Book Club.’
Cross-Sector Partnership – Shared Responsibility
Large Company: Zgapari, in partnership with the association ‘Life Change,’ for the project ‘Professional Orientation and Empowerment of Youth in State Care.’
Transparency and Report on CSR and Corporate Sustainability
Large Company: TBC Bank, for their ‘Sustainability Report 2022.’
CSR Manager of the Year
Winner: Natia Sirbiladze, from Exactpro.
Responsible Large Company of the Year
Winner: TBC Bank.
Voices of Leadership
Eka Urushadze, Director of the Center for Strategic Research and Development of Georgia (CSRDG), underscored the importance of the Meliora awards. “Contests like Meliora significantly support businesses, both in the implementation of diverse CSR projects and in strengthening their positive image and reputation. Additionally, developed corporate social responsibility practices bring us even closer to European standards of business management,” she remarked.
Adding to this, Nicholas Cendrowicz, Head of Cooperation Section at the Delegation of the European Union to Georgia, highlighted the broader impact of CSR: “The Meliora awards are a good example of the EU working with Georgian civil society and business associations to embed responsibility and sustainability into the core strategies of Georgian businesses. It demonstrates that responsible business conduct leads to long-term financial success as well as social good,” he stated.
The Role of CSRDG
The Center for Strategic Research and Development of Georgia (CSRDG), instrumental in organizing the event, has been a pioneer in promoting CSR in Georgia. Established 29 years ago, CSRDG has initiated numerous projects, including the corporate social responsibility program. It was the first organization in Georgia to prepare and publish a Sustainable Development Report according to the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) standards. Moreover, CSRDG developed the first Georgian-language manual on CSR, created the CSR Knowledge Hub, and established the CSR Stakeholders Forum.
The CSRDG’s commitment to advancing CSR is evident in their continuous efforts to support and guide businesses in adopting sustainable practices. Their work ensures that Georgian companies are not only aware of international CSR standards, but are also capable of implementing them effectively. By doing so, CSRDG helps to create a business environment where social responsibility is a core value, fostering a culture of ethical business practices and long-term sustainability.
The European Union’s Commitment
For more than three decades, the European Union has partnered closely with Georgia, fostering knowledge exchange, innovation, and providing financial assistance. This partnership is grounded in shared values, such as peace, freedom, democracy, human rights, and inclusive economic growth. The EU’s support for the Meliora awards underscores its commitment to promoting CSR as a means to achieve sustainable development in Georgia.
The EU’s involvement in the Meliora awards also reflects a broader strategy to encourage Georgian businesses to align with European standards. This alignment not only enhances the reputation of Georgian companies, but also opens up new opportunities for international collaboration and investment. By embedding CSR into their core strategies, Georgian businesses can contribute to a more sustainable and equitable future, both locally and globally.
Looking to the Future
The ‘Meliora 2024’ awards both celebrated the achievements of Georgian businesses in CSR and also served as an inspiration for others to follow suit. By integrating CSR into their core strategies, businesses contribute to a more sustainable and equitable future for Georgia.
The event highlighted how CSR initiatives could drive positive change, improve community well-being, and ensure environmental sustainability. The recognition of these efforts motivates other companies to adopt similar practices, creating a ripple effect that benefits society as a whole.
The winners of the Meliora awards demonstrated that responsible business practices are equally beneficial for society and businesses themselves. Companies that prioritize CSR tend to enjoy enhanced reputations, increased customer loyalty, and better employee engagement. These advantages translate into long-term financial success and resilience, proving that doing good is indeed good for business.
Event Sponsors
The success of ‘Meliora 2024’ was also made possible by the support of sponsors, including UN WOMEN, Moore, Element Holding, and Sarajishvili. Their contributions highlight the collaborative effort required to promote and sustain CSR initiatives.
The involvement of these sponsors underscores the importance of collective action in advancing CSR. By pooling resources and expertise, organizations can amplify their impact and drive more significant progress towards sustainable development goals. The Meliora awards serve as a powerful reminder that when businesses, civil society, and international partners work together, they can achieve remarkable outcomes.
The ‘Meliora 2024’ awards were a testament to the power of responsible business practices. They highlighted the significant impact that companies can have on society and the environment through their commitment to CSR. As Georgian businesses continue to innovate and lead in this field, the future looks promising for sustainable development and corporate responsibility in the region.
The awards not only celebrated current achievements but also set the stage for future advancements in CSR. They encouraged businesses to strive for excellence, to be transparent in their operations, and to be accountable for their impact. As more companies embrace these values, the positive effects will extend far beyond the business sector, contributing to a more just, sustainable, and prosperous society for all.
By Kesaria Katcharava
