Clifford Chance

Clifford Chance opens applications for its £50,000 UN Sustainable Development Goals Award, targeting sustainable economic growth

Leading international law firm Clifford Chance today opens applications for its 2023 global United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs) Award which will focus on a range of SDGs which support widening access to sustainable economic opportunity and growth. In line with the firm's pro bono and community outreach strategy, the annual award supports non-governmental organisations (NGOs) whose work contributes to the achievement of the UN SDGs and is open to NGOs around the world. The SDG Award will see the firm donate £50,000 and 500 hours of pro bono support to the winning NGO, helping build their capacity and scale the impact of their operations.

This year's UN SDG Award aims to recognise outstanding contributions towards widening access to sustainable economic opportunity, with the focus primarily on aligning with SDG 8 ("Promote sustained, inclusive and sustainable economic growth, full and productive employment and decent work for all"), as well as the various targets under some of the other SDGs, e.g. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 9 that are also relevant to widening access to sustainable economic opportunity.

The judges are particularly interested in award submissions that demonstrate innovative approaches that enable people to become economically self-sufficient, establish profitable businesses or access safe and secure employment, including through the use of technology. The submissions should also show potential to be replicated and scaled.

Entries will be reviewed by the same criteria irrespective of the entrant's size, geographical location, or previous interaction with Clifford Chance.

Humanitarian, digital connectivity charity Jangala was the winner of last year's award which focused on educational institutions whose work contributes towards the achievement of SDG 4. Clifford Chance's pro bono support and funding is currently helping Jangala to scale-up its operations globally and navigate the complex landscape of global regulations surrounding wireless technology.

Key application process dates:

• Application process opens on Monday 12 June 2023. Apply for the Award via our application form
• Application process closes on Thursday 20 July 2023
• Winner announced October 2023

The winner will be chosen by a judging panel led by Clifford Chance Senior Partner Adrian Cartwright, as well as representatives from the firm's Responsible Business Board, the firm's strategic pro bono partners, and select client representatives.

Read more about more Clifford Chance's pro bono and community activities.