With Gamescom now comfortably in the past, the editorial team at GamesIndustry.biz has turned its attention to the evaluation phase of this year’s Best Places To Work (BPTW) Awards. While the primary award categories have already closed for submissions—these are assessed using anonymised feedback from employees—the organisers have decided to prolong the nomination window for a suite of Special Awards. These particular honours are designed to spotlight companies that demonstrate superior performance in distinct, high‑impact areas of the games sector.
The extended deadline gives nominees until 00:00 GMT on Monday, 7 September, to put forward their entries. Unlike the core BPTW categories, which focus on overall workplace culture and employee satisfaction, the Special Awards operate as a separate track and are open to any UK‑based business that either directly participates in the games industry or provides services to it. This inclusive approach ensures that a broad spectrum of organisations—ranging from indie studios and large publishers to ancillary service providers—can be recognised for their contributions. The categories currently accepting nominations are as follows: - **The Diversity Award** – Celebrating companies that have implemented robust strategies to foster inclusive hiring practices, support under‑represented groups, and create a workplace where diversity thrives.
- **The Green Award** – Honouring firms that have taken concrete steps toward environmental stewardship, such as reducing carbon footprints, adopting sustainable production methods, or championing eco‑friendly initiatives within the industry. - **HR Hero Award** – Recognising HR professionals or teams that have gone above and beyond to support staff, develop innovative policies, and drive positive change in people management. - **Training and Development Award** – Highlighting organisations that invest heavily in upskilling their workforce, offering comprehensive training programmes, mentorship schemes, and continuous learning opportunities.
- **Education Award** – Acknowledging companies that contribute to educational outreach, whether through partnerships with academic institutions, the creation of learning resources, or the promotion of game‑based learning. - **Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Award** – Rewarding businesses that demonstrate a strong commitment to social responsibility, community engagement, and ethical practices beyond profit motives.
- **Health and Well‑Being Award** – Celebrating firms that prioritise the mental and physical health of their employees, providing supportive resources, wellness programmes, and a culture that encourages work‑life balance. Nominations may be submitted by anyone with insight into the nominee’s performance—this includes internal staff members, external partners, clients, or even industry observers.
The judging panel, composed of seasoned professionals from various sectors of the games ecosystem, will review all submissions next week. Their assessment will be based on evidence of tangible impact, innovation, and alignment with the award’s stated criteria.
Winners will be announced during the BPTW Awards ceremony scheduled for 1 October. In addition to the awards, the GamesIndustry.biz HR Summit is still open for registration. This year’s summit centres on the future of People & Work, exploring emerging trends, challenges, and best practices that will shape the workforce of tomorrow. The event will take place on the morning of the awards ceremony, offering attendees a chance to network, attend expert panels, and gain actionable insights before the evening’s celebrations.
For organisations aiming to showcase their achievements in any of the listed special categories, the extended nomination period presents a valuable chance to gain industry recognition. Submitting a nomination involves detailing specific initiatives, measurable outcomes, and any supporting data that illustrate why the company stands out in the chosen area. Whether it’s a groundbreaking diversity recruitment program, a pioneering carbon‑reduction strategy, or an innovative health‑and‑well‑being framework, the judges are looking for clear, demonstrable evidence of excellence. To participate, simply visit the official BPTW Awards portal, fill out the nomination form for the relevant category, and attach any supplementary documentation that strengthens the case.
Remember that the deadline is strict—entries received after midnight on 7 September will not be considered. The Special Awards not only provide a platform for recognising niche achievements but also encourage the broader games community to adopt best practices across the board. By highlighting exemplary work in diversity, sustainability, employee development, and social responsibility, the awards aim to set benchmarks that other companies can aspire to meet. If you have any questions about the nomination process, eligibility requirements, or the upcoming HR Summit, please reach out to the GamesIndustry.biz awards team via the contact information provided on the website.
They are ready to assist with guidance on crafting compelling submissions and ensuring that all necessary materials are submitted correctly. Don’t miss this extended window to celebrate the outstanding work being done across the UK games industry. Submit your nominations today, secure your place at the HR Summit, and join us on 1 October for an evening that honours the very best workplaces and the individuals who make them exceptional.