The First Deignan Award Celebrates SMEs in Hong Kong and Macao for Leading the Way in Responsible Entrepreneurship Selecting Conscientious SMEs and Encouraging Positive Business Values
With the growing global focus on corporate social responsibility, the core values of ESG (Environment, Social, and Governance) have become a hot topic in the business world. However, most discussions on ESG revolve around large corporations and neglect the crucial role of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). In fact, SMEs are essential to the economy and their actions towards ESG should also be given attention. This not only enhances the image of SMEs but also increases their competitiveness in the market. The forward-thinking Deignan Award for Responsible Entrepreneurship recognises the need for SMEs and has been introduced to encourage more SMEs to focus on and practice ESG, promoting sustainable economic development and contributing to the future of society and the planet.
The 1st Deignan Award for Responsible Entrepreneurship has finally unveiled its incredible winners, celebrating the outstanding efforts of SMEs in Hong Kong and Macao who are making a difference in the world. These exemplary companies are being recognised for their commitment to sustainable practices, corporate social responsibility, and ESG principles. The highly-anticipated award ceremony took place on 25th March at the Yasumoto International Academic Park of The Chinese University of Hong Kong.
The Deignan Award for Responsible Entrepreneurship received an overwhelming response from various industries in Hong Kong and Macao, with a diverse group of applicants registered for the Award. Three exceptional finalists were shortlisted, making it a tough competition. Ultimately, GoGoChart Technology Limited and MSS Recruitment Limited were crowned with the prestigious Gold Award, setting a new benchmark in responsible entrepreneurship. The Silver and Bronze Awards among the Hong Kong region were awarded to Sunta Chemical 2 Limited and Farmacy HK Limited, respectively, while C&C Lawyers & Notaries and Macao Newland Technology Co., Ltd were presented with the Silver and Bronze Award, respectively, among the Macao region.
The winners were evaluated based on a range of criteria, such as upholding human dignity, displaying exceptional entrepreneurial spirit, fostering fairness, supporting the disadvantaged, and promoting environmental sustainability. Not only does the Deignan Award celebrate the outstanding achievements of the winners, but it also stresses the significance of follow-up efforts to ensure that awardees uphold the principles of responsible entrepreneurship for the following years. The organisers recognise that the growing demand for ESG and Corporate social responsibility (CSR) practices will aid in this endeavour. Responsible entrepreneurship requires a continuous commitment, and the Deignan Award aims to inspire SMEs in Hong Kong and Macao to continue making a positive impact on society and the environment.
Dr. Stephan Rothlin S.J., Chairman of the Steering Committee of the Deignan Award and Director of Macau Ricci Institute, expressed his sincere gratitude for the tremendous support from all parties. He warmly welcomed all the distinguished guests and shared his enthusiasm for the Award, stating that “The Deignan Award is an inspiring platform to showcase the powerful impact of sound values, capable of lighting up a path and making a difference in even the most challenging and competitive marketplaces.”
Dr. Joseph Lee, GBS, OStj, JP, Vice-Chairman of the Steering Committee of the Deignan Award and President of Wofoo Social Enterprises, enthusiastically congratulated the winning SMEs for their remarkable achievements in upholding social responsibility. In his speech, he highlighted the critical role of purpose and mission in the growth and sustainability of enterprises, emphasizing that a good purpose is key to a thriving society. He firmly believes that enterprises that prioritise social responsibility are the ones that will endure and prosper in the long run.
Ms. Ruby O, Chief Judge of Macao for the Deignan Award, said, “This year’s selection of conscientious companies was met with an overwhelming response, and the participating companies’ overall performance was impressive. It’s heartening to see that an increasing number of businesses have begun to recognise the significance of ethical business practices in recent years.”
She emphasised that judges placed particular emphasis on whether the companies fostered a strong corporate culture, whether they implemented the concepts they intended to do well into action, and whether they adhered to ethical standards during the scoring process. With a meticulous approach, the judges selected outstanding companies and commended them for their efforts, hoping to inspire them to continue driving the progress of their businesses and society while contributing to a brighter future.
An impressive array of entrepreneurs and government officials from Hong Kong and Macao regions graced the award ceremony. The distinguished guests included Dr. CHAN Pak Li, Bernard, Under Secretary for Commerce & Economic Development of the HKSAR, who was invited as the guest of honour. The Deignan Award, a joint effort between Wofoo Social Enterprises in Hong Kong and the Macao Ricci Institute at the University of Saint Joseph, Macao, has made its debut as an eagerly anticipated event in the business world. This award was launched on 22nd April 2022, and SMEs were invited to submit entries free of charge, which were accepted until 31st October 2022.
Supported by various organisers, including the University of Saint Joseph in Macao, the Hong Kong International Institute of Educational Leadership, and the Centre for Catholic Studies at The Chinese University of Hong Kong, the Deignan Award was also supported by The Macao Institute for Corporate Social Responsibility in Greater China and Globethics.Net in Geneva.
For further information, please visit the Deignan Award official website at https://www.deignanaward.org/ or contact Secretariat of the Organising Committee.