ZKB SME Sustainability Award: Apply now!
Until March 31, 2016, companies with up to 500 employees can apply for the ZKB SME Award, which is valued at CHF 150,000. The award recognizes the sustainable use of financial, social and ecological resources.
The Zürcher Kantonalbank (ZBK) awards the annual SME Prize. The award, worth 150,000 Swiss francs, is given to small and medium-sized enterprises that stand out for comprehensive sustainability in all areas.
Development is sustainable in the broad sense if it meets the needs of the present generation without jeopardizing the opportunities of future generations. For companies, this means using resources responsibly and competently. This means financial resources as well as social and ecological resources. The ability to manage sustainably is regarded as one of the essential components for maintaining and increasing the long-term value of the company.
To assess the sustainability performance of the applicants, the jury therefore gives equal weight to criteria from the fields of economics, environment, society, and management. In addition, the potential for future sustainability performance is taken into account.
In addition to the three main prizes, two special prizes will be awarded: The special prize for microenterprises is awarded to companies with around ten full-time positions. The special prize for exceptional performance honors, for example, special innovative projects, a high level of social commitment or an outstanding economic performance.
The jury is composed of representatives of the Zurich Cantonal Bank, the partners CCRS (Center for Corporate Responsibility and Sustainability) and öbu (Network for Sustainable Business) as well as renowned SME representatives.
The application is still possible until March 31, 2016.
