New award recognises corporate cultural philanthropy

Achates Philanthropy Foundation (APF) has launched a new prize that recognises corporate cultural philanthropy. It follows the inaugural edition of its individual Achates Philanthropy Prize in 2016, which was won by Nigel Farnall.

The awards are intended to encourage first-time givers, whether their donations are large or small. Farnall was recognised for his support of Theatre Royal Stratford East, which he has donated GBP3,000 (€3,500) to since 2012.

Farnall came up with the idea for the corporate prize and will sit on the jury panel for this year’s awards. Other jury members include broadcasters Razia Iqbal and John Wilson, as well as representatives from sponsors BOP Consulting and Spektrix.

“As the co-founder of a small business myself, I know that corporate support can be a great way of getting involved with charity,” commented Farnall. “As a judge of the 2017 Prize, I am looking forward to hearing how companies and philanthropists of all levels are getting behind the arts.”

The jury will select from individuals and companies nominated by cultural organisations across the UK. Nominations can be made from 19 June onwards through the APF website.

The winners in both the individual and corporate category will see GBP5,000 donated to the cultural organisation they supported. Prizes will be distributed at a special event at the Old Vic in London in November.

achates.org.uk