The Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce is delighted to announce that it has been selected as a finalist for the 2017 World Chamber Competition as chosen by the ICC World Chambers Federation (WCF).

The World Chambers Competition, organised by the WCF, is the only global awards programme to recognise projects developed by Chambers of Commerce and the industry worldwide. The finalists were selected by an international jury, after receiving 53 applications from 27 countries.

Each year of the competition features new categories available to enter, providing the chance to share unique projects with Chambers of Commerce worldwide. The four categories for this year’s competition include Best Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Project, Best Job Creation and Business Development Project, Best Education and Training Project and Best Unconventional Project.

The Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce is a finalist for the Best Corporate Responsibility (CSR) Project, competing against Chambers from Brazil, Iran and India. The Chamber has been recognised for Worcestershire Works Well, a health and well-being plan that supports local businesses in workplace health promotion, raising awareness of particular health issues and supporting employees to make healthier lifestyle choices.

Sharon Smith, Chief Executive of the Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce, said: “I am delighted that the Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce has been chosen as a finalist for the 2017 World Chambers Competition by the ICC World Chambers Federation.

“The Chamber’s partnership with the Worcestershire County Council Public Health, Community First, Sports Partnership Herefordshire & Worcestershire and Worcestershire Regulatory Services for Worcestershire Works Well has allowed us to work with over 90 active companies and impacts over 25,000 employees, by encouraging and supporting lifestyle changes.

“We are excited to represent Worcestershire on an international level and look forward to the awards ceremony that will be held in Sydney, Australia on Thursday 21 September 2017.”

The winners of all categories will be announced during the Congress Gala Dinner, held in Australia’s premier convention centre. The four competition winners will be awarded a cash prize and global recognition from Chambers of Commerce and the business community