The Plunkett Foundation has launched this year’s Rural Community Ownership Awards.
Plunkett is welcoming applications from community businesses, including co-operatives and community benefit societies for the awards, which include five categories recognising inspiring rural community businesses across the UK, as well as the People’s Choice Award celebrating an outstanding individual who has made a real difference in their community.
The categories are:
Community Story of the Year: to recognise stories that capture how community businesses provide a much deeper role in supporting individuals and community life
Investing in Local People: to reward the efforts of one community business, which goes above and beyond to support and invest in its staff, volunteers and service users
The Little Things: for a community business that is tackling loneliness and isolation in rural areas in an accessible and effective way
Diversifying to Make a Difference: for community businesses embracing diversification
People’s Choice: for an individual who has made a difference in their community
The Horace Plunkett Better Business Award: for a community business with the longevity and a track record that demonstrates innovative business practices to enable it to thrive and succeed.
The Rural Community Ownership Awards are supported by funding from Esmée Fairbairn Foundation and Hastoe Housing Association.
Shortlisted community businesses will receive two free tickets to attend the awards ceremony, which will take place later this year.
Nominations are open until 14 September. Each category winner will receive £250 as well as the support and materials to host a celebration party for the community.
