AmCham, together with partners - the United States Embassy in Latvia, Baltic-American Freedom Foundation and Civic Alliance of Latvia announces a Human Development Award (HDA) program to honor inspirational people and social responsibility practices of Latvian businesses and non-profit organizations. The purpose of the Award is to promote human development and to further sustainable economic growth and prosperity of Latvia.

We invite you to participate in the HDA contest by submitting nominations in the following categories:

• Social Responsibility Award - to honor excellence in the development of society through exceptional generosity and long-term commitment of time, expertise, financial or organizational support.
• Outstanding Commitment to Education Award - to honor initiatives for improving the quality of and access to education and training that enhances the well-being of people from all walks of life, and promotes education as a life-long process.
• Exemplary Contribution to Health and Well-Being Award - to honor initiatives in regard to promotion of healthy living, and supporting and improving access to healthcare and the well-being of communities and individuals, and reducing health inequalities.
• The Future of Latvia Award - to honor initiatives in regard to the enhancement of youth and children's welfare and healthy development and their rights to grow up in a loving, stable environment.

Nominees' accomplishments will be evaluated by the jury of recognized experts, representing both partner organizations and representatives from the Latvian society. Entries will be evaluated based on the following criteria:

• Impact - demonstrable impact on society
• Sustainability - sustainable development
• Innovation - innovative, creative and original approaches
• Inspiration - actions serving as a model of practice for others

Commenting on the Award, U.S. Ambassador to Latvia Mark Pekala said, "Recognizing and honoring inspirational individuals and organizations that are helping build a stronger and more prosperous society is critical. Sometimes these people and organizations go unrecognized for their contributions. We see this award as an opportunity to highlight this important work." 

AmCham Latvia president Ivars Slokenbergs emphasized: „Latvia's economic growth and prosperous future depend on its people. Numerous studies testify to the immense role of human development in creating a more prosperous, equal and healthy society. Human development is an answer to Latvia's demographic challenges. AmCham Latvia believes that promoting long-term investment in human capital and reducing inequality is vital for ensuring the future of Latvia. In organizing the Human Development Award, we hope to highlight the great work that is already being done to strengthen Latvia's human capital, and we hope that the Award recipients will be models for others to follow."

Director of Baltic-American Freedom Foundation Ilze Doskina said: „Baltic-American Freedom Foundation (BAFF), in line with our mission, supports economic growth and democratic processes. That is why it is only logical to have us supporting this initiative together with other close partners. All our programs are centered on development and we fully recognize that individual initiative and well done job is a step towards development of our country."

The Acting Director of the Civic Alliance of Latvia Inta Šimanska said: „We are delighted about the initiative of AmCham, thus recognizing the contribution of Latvia's organizations in enriching the resources of Latvian people to improve their quality of life regardless of their religious beliefs, sexual orientation, levels of income and nationality.

Winners will receive an award trophy specifically designed for this occasion, recognition and promotion of their initiative, exclusive invitation to the Awards Ceremony with the opportunity to meet high-level officials and professionals. In addition, winners may also receive cash or another special prize that will be determined by the Evaluation Committee. Winners will be announced in the Awards ceremony on May 24.

Any physical person or legal entity is entitled to submit nominations. Please note that self-nominations will not be accepted. Nominated may be Latvian citizens, companies or organizations registreted in Latvia. To apply, please fill out the application form to nominate any citizen or organization of Latvia and send it to amcham@amcham.lv until March 5.

More information about the Human Development Award is available here.

Become a sponsor!

We would like to extend to you a high-profile promotion opportunity to become a sponsor of Human Development Award. Sponsorship of HDA program offers high-profile visibility, interaction with key decision-makers and the international and local business community and an opportunity to promote your company's dedication to social responsibility and human development. In addition, we expect to receive wide media coverage.

The sponsorship will cover the costs of the program, including the prize fund for winners and a black-tie Award Dinner. There are 4 different sponsorship packages, which can be downloaded here.