On 30 November 2023 Sofia Development Association, together with its partners UNHCR, Caritas Sofia and the Bulgarian Red Cross, awarded employers who promote the socio-economic inclusion of migrants and refugees in Sofia via the Responsible Employer Awards.

The granting of these awards serve to promote and celebrate the integration of refugees and migrants, and the contributions they are making to their host society and community. This is the third year they have taken place, highlighting a growing trend in such initiatives in Bulgaria. 

The initiative recognises migrants and refugees who have started their own businesses in Sofia, as well as employers and companies that employ migrants and refugees. In 2023, special focus was placed on migrants and refugees who have not only developed their own businesses but also hired other migrants and refugees in turn.

Images source: Sofia Development Association, 2023.

In total, 16 companies and entrepreneurs were awarded in several categories:

• Female Entrepreneur
• Give a Hand Entrepreneur
• Tasty Sofia
• New Beginning
• Business Debut
• Multicultural Team

The event was financed by UNHCR within the framework of the Support for the development of integration policies and services for refugees project in Sofia.