The Association for Cultural Enterprises, a charity and trade body for the arts, heritage, and cultural sector, has announced the launch of its new awards programme, which showcases commercial success and best practice in the cultural sector.
Entries are now open for the Cultural Enterprises Awards 2025. The Awards have undergone a significant overhaul, with 14 new categories recognising innovation and success across all areas of cultural income generation. In addition, entries are now open to the whole sector, not just Association for Cultural Enterprises members.
Due to today’s challenging economic times and funding reductions, it has never been so important to share commercial revenue generation experience as broadly as possible. The Cultural Enterprises Awards are the only industry awards that honour business success and innovation and outstanding practices in diversity, equity, inclusion, and environmental sustainability.
All arts, heritage and cultural organisations, including those not presently members of the Association, are now eligible to enter for the first time, expanding the sector’s chances to showcase achievements, inspiration, and best practices.
Catering, e-commerce, events, filming, licensing, marketing, publishing, retail, tickets, venue rental, and visitor experience are just a few of the 14 categories covered by the Awards. Additionally, Sector Support Partnership of the Year, Team of the Year, and Rising Star awards will be presented.
Shining a light on commercial excellence
A group of well-known and esteemed industry professionals from the cultural sector and beyond will judge the Awards; they were all selected for their experience and expertise. The entry procedure is quick and uncomplicated, with just one form to complete and three short, evidence-based questions to respond to.
Cultural Enterprises CEO Gordon Morrison says: “A primary aim of the Association for Cultural Enterprises is to shine a light on commercial excellence within the cultural sector. Our awards provide us with the perfect platform to both recognise and celebrate success and I would urge any organisations in or connected to the cultural sector who have a positive story to tell around commercial innovation, positive collaboration, great people or excellent service to enter.
“Commercial income is increasingly vital for the cultural sector and these new awards will help us to showcase the brightest and best innovations, the most passionate and inspiring people and the very best venues from within our membership and beyond.”
All types and sizes of arts, heritage and cultural organisations are encouraged to enter. Cultural Enterprises member organisations can enter for free, while non-members will pay a small entry fee.
Entries will close on Friday 17 January 2025, and the shortlist will be announced in early February. The winners will be announced at a special Awards Party at the Museum of Liverpool on 12 March 2025, during the Cultural Enterprises Conference.
Please click here to learn more about the award categories, judges and how to enter.
Earlier this month, the Association for Cultural Enterprises announced the publication of its new Benchmarking Report. This highlights the critical importance of commercial income in supporting the cultural sector.
