SDG Business Pioneers Award Albania 2025

About the Award 

Spotlight on Sustainable Tourism

The SDG Business Pioneers Award acknowledges and celebrate businesses that show outstanding dedication to sustainability and actively contribute to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). We are seeking Albania’s leaders and companies that inspire positive change through their operations, products, services, and overall business practices.

For 2025, the spotlight is on tourism – a sector that uniquely connects economic growth with environmental protection, cultural heritage, and community well-being. 

This year the award is open only to companies whose core operations are in the tourism sector. 

Award Categories

Eight awards will be presented:

• Company Awards: One overall winner in each category: Micro, Small, Medium, Large and International.

• Champion Awards: After the company awards are decided, all applications will be reviewed to recognize three outstanding achievements: People Champion, Planet Champion and Prosperity Champion.

People Award (Social Impact) 

This theme focuses on how the company supports and values its employees, customers, and local community. In tourism, this includes promoting fair treatment, equality, wellbeing, inclusion and empowerment. It focuses on the human and social dimension of sustainability.   

Planet Award (Environmental Impact) 

This theme considers the company’s environmental footprint and its responsibility to reduce harm and protect natural resources. In tourism, this means managing energy and water use, reducing waste, cutting carbon emissions, and tackling climate change. It also involves proactive measures to conserve ecosystems and cultural heritage, ensuring destinations remain attractive, resilient and healthy for future tourists and communities.  

Prosperity Award (Economic Impact) 

This theme considers how the company contributes to the economy and long-term resilience. It considers job creation, fair-value chains, innovation, partnerships and inclusive growth. The focus is on building sustainable economic systems.  

Why SDG Pioneers?

By joining our community of sustainability pioneers, your company will be part of a growing network of businesses committed to making a lasting impact, both socially and environmentally. Your efforts deserve to be seen, celebrated and set an example for those who are not yet familiar with the SDGs. Together, we can build a more resilient and responsible business community in Albania.

Why do they matter for business? 

• Align strategy with global priorities, ensuring long-term resilience and relevance. 
• Communicate sustainability impact in a way that investors, partners, and consumers understand. 
• Collaborate and innovate, building partnerships that drive both profitability and positive change. 

Note! Companies must be registered and operating in Albania, and engaged in direct tourism; businesses whose core operations consist of selling directly to tourists.

Applications from “enablers” whose core business is outside direct tourism activities (e.g. general tech/waste services) will not be accepted. Only businesses whose services serve tourists directly are eligible. 

Applications are closed