Frequently Asked Questions

1. Why participate in the SME ESG Excellence Awards?
   It helps SMEs understand their ESG performance, refine sustainability strategies through professional assessments, gain industry recognition, and enhance brand image and competitiveness.
    
2. Is my enterprise eligible?
   Hong Kong-registered SMEs with fewer than 100 employees (manufacturing) or 50 employees (non-manufacturing) are eligible. The ESG projects should be completed between September 1, 2024, and August 31, 2025.
    
3. Is there an application fee?
   No, the application is free.
    
4. Can I apply for multiple award categories under the SME ESG Excellence Awards?
   Yes, applicants are automatically considered for all categories under the SME ESG Excellence Awards upon submission. Separate documentation and descriptions are required for each category.
    
5. How are assessments conducted?
   Evaluations are based on the 8 categories of ESG One’s Online ESG Self-Assessment. Innovation and upgrade, business impact, and sustainability are also considered. The judging panel will review the application forms, ESG One’s Online ESG Self-Assessment, and verified ESG reports/certificates afterward.
    
6. Can submitted materials be revised?
   Only the first submitted application will be considered. Ensure all materials are complete and accurate before submission.
    
7. How to prepare for the Online ESG Self-Assessment powered by HKPC ESG One?
   The assessment provides clear guidelines. Enterprises should prepare ESG project data and supporting documents in advance.
    
8. What if I lack audited/certified ESG performance reports/certificates?
   For inquiries about submitting ESG reports/certificates/documents, please contact Edward So (2788 5015) or Kitson Ng (2788 5589).
    
9. When and how will the awards presentation ceremony take place?
   The ceremony is tentatively scheduled on December 2025 (details TBC). Winners will be notified internally in late October 2025 and invited to attend.
    
10. Is submitted information confidential?
    All submitted materials are used solely for assessment and review purposes, securely handled by TVB and HKPC, and will not be disclosed or used for other purposes.