Growing demands from markets, investors and regulatory frameworks are placing sustainable business practices at the centre of companies’ long-term success. The SDG Business Pioneers Award in Bosnia and Herzegovina recognises companies that are already applying these principles in practice, and applications for the 2026 edition are now open.
The SDG Business Pioneers Award is part of the programme “Translating the SDG Framework in Bosnia and Herzegovina into Sustainable and Inclusive Growth (SDG2BiH)”, funded by Sweden and implemented by UNDP in partnership with UNICEF and UN Women in Bosnia and Herzegovina. The official partner of the Award is the Foreign Trade Chamber of Bosnia and Herzegovina.
The Award is intended for private companies operating in Bosnia and Herzegovina that integrate responsible practices towards employees, resources and the community into their business operations. Regardless of size or sector, companies investing in sustainable business practices have the opportunity, through this process, to review and structure their results in line with relevant international standards.
Why apply?
The SDG Business Pioneers Award recognises vision, commitment and innovation. Participation is free of charge, the application process is simple and straightforward, and it offers several benefits for companies:
- Be among the best: Position your company as a role model and demonstrate that sustainability contributes to long-term success.
- Promote your results: Your achievements will be showcased through UNDP communication channels, events and social media.
- Access UNDP support programmes: Companies that apply, particularly those shortlisted, will have the opportunity to participate in training and advisory programmes on ESG standards, CBAM regulation, certifications, circular economy, green chemistry and other topics shaping the future of business.
- Support in sustainability reporting: Participants have the opportunity, with expert support from UNDP and partners, to develop or improve their annual sustainability reports in line with international standards (GRI, ESG).
- Align with EU standards: The application is aligned with GRI and ESG principles, helping companies prepare for the requirements of the European market and upcoming regulations.
- Strengthen your brand positioning: Demonstrate to customers, partners and future collaborators how your business contributes to society and the planet.
Previous Award recipients, including Zira, TT Kabeli, Greens, iFORM and Smrčak, have demonstrated that it is possible to build successful businesses while investing in employee development, improving working conditions and reducing negative environmental impacts. Their examples confirm that sustainability is a clear business advantage, not merely a matter of corporate social responsibility.
The Award is presented in two thematic areas. The “People” theme recognises companies that create quality jobs, ensure equal opportunities and invest in the development of employees’ knowledge and skills. The “Resources and Environment” theme covers practices focused on efficient use of resources, reducing environmental footprints and applying environmentally friendly technologies.
The application process is simple and begins with a short online questionnaire aligned with GRI and ESG principles. Through participation in this process, companies have the opportunity to deepen their understanding of sustainable business practices and further strengthen their capacities in areas such as ESG reporting, circular economy and alignment with EU regulations.
More information about the SDG Business Pioneers Award and the application process is available at www.zamisli2030.ba. The application deadline is 15 March.
