We are excited to announce this year’s exceptional Social Enterprise Awards Scotland shortlist, recognising the incredible work and impact of social enterprises, employees, volunteers and organisations across the country.

This year’s shortlist reflect the very best of the sector, highlighting the vital role social enterprises have in supporting communities, building places, and making a positive impact on our environment and wellbeing.

Categories and Shortlisted Nominees:

Social Enterprise of the Year

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. 

  • CEIS
  • Community Food Initiatives North East (CFINE)
  • Isle of Gigha Heritage Trust
  • New Start Highland
  • Simon Community Scotland

One to Watch

For 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. 

  • Cake or Dice
  • Courtyard Pantry
  • Pride Outside
  • Sunny Cycles
  • The Highland Weigh

Environmental Social Enterprise

For a social enterprise in the green and environmental sectors that can show a clear, evidenced environmental impact. 

  • Argyll Countryside Trust (ACT)
  • Eco Drama
  • Four Square
  • Stitch the Gap
  • The Edinburgh Remakery

Building Diversity, Inclusion, Equity and Justice

For a social enterprise that are addressing issues around diversity, inclusion, and equity. 

  • Community Renewal Trust – Rom Romeha
  • Govan Community Project
  • Passion 4 Social
  • Pride Outside
  • Positive Steps Partnership

Health and Social Care

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. 

  • Care Opinion CIC
  • Media Education
  • Simon Community Scotland
  • The Haven in Stonehaven
  • The Health and Wellness Hub

Tech for Good

For a social enterprise that is using technology to achieve its social impact

  • Braw Talent
  • Care Opinion CIC
  • MHScot Workplace Wellbeing
  • Showcase the Street
  • Studio FV

Buy Social Market Builder

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.

  • Balfour Beatty
  • Challenges Worldwide
  • Scottish Borders Social Enterprise Chamber
  • School for Social Entrepreneurs Scotland
  • Social Investment Scotland

Social Enterprise Employee Champion

This award recognises an individual working in a social enterprise that goes above and beyond to make a difference. 

  • Ally Graham, BeechBrae
  • Nausheen Karim, Dundee International Women’s Centre
  • Nicola Pollock, MorphFit Gentle Movement Project
  • Victoria Pearce, Community Enterprise

Social Enterprise Volunteer Champion

This award recognises an individual volunteering with a social enterprise that goes above and beyond to make a difference. 

  • Dalvina Kerr, Edinburgh Community Yoga
  • Ray Murrell, Furniture Plus
  • Yvonne Crook, Highland Tourism CIC
  • June Maxwell, Move On Scotland
  • David Quayle, The Ayr Gaiety

IDBM Impact Award

This award is designed to recognise and celebrate businesses that exemplify inclusive and democratic business practices contributing to the economic and social well-being of their communities.

  • Esteem Training
  • Loco Home Retrofit
  • media co-op
  • Scotland the Bread
  • Scotmid
  • West Granton Housing Co-operative