03 Jul 2025
Glasgow marks its 850 year anniversary with the return of The Herald's prestigious Inspiring City Awards, celebrating those shaping the city's future and legacy.
This year marks an historic milestone for Glasgow. It is 850 years since the granting of a charter by King William The Lion, a move that set the city on the path of commercial, industrial and cultural expansion.
From a small settlement that stretched the length of the High Street and the Saltmarket, from the River Clyde to the great Medieval cathedral that had been built on the site of St Mungo’s original church, Glasgow began to grow rapidly in size and stature to become the city it is today.
From trade with the New World to fostering the inventions that would launch the Industrial Age and through shipbuilding, architecture and education, Glasgow has made its mark on the world stage. Now, in recognition of its rich history, the city’s vibrant present and the emerging talent that will forge a path into the future, The Herald, in collaboration with Glasgow Chamber of Commerce, is relaunching the Inspiring City Awards with the aim of celebrating those whose efforts continue to enhance the standing of the city today.
There will be nine awards in total, each one recognising a different element of the life of the city and all of them recognising the hard work and vision of those who continue to carry forward Glasgow’s long and proud legacy.
The Art & Culture Award, which will embrace all art forms, including architecture, performance and events, will single out an individual or organisation that has enhanced the city’s cultural ambitions on the global stage.
The Economic Impact Award will focus on those businesses or initiatives that have made a significant contribution to Glasgow’s economic growth and development, while the Environmental Award will focus on initiatives that have contributed to Glasgow’s environment, by combating climate change and helping to address the Glasgow Pacts agreed by global leaders when the city hosted COP26.
For the Outstanding Contribution by a Business Leader Award, the judges will be looking for someone who has made an indelible mark on the commercial life of the city, while the Sport Award will look at the development of sport in the city and at individuals or organisations which have inspired others to become more active, been a role model or who have helped to secure facilities and funding.
For a city to thrive, all of its residents must feel that they have a stake in its future and the Community Impact Award will celebrate initiatives that have improved quality of life, community cohesion or social equity, while the Youth Empowerment Project Award will highlight projects that have been designed to engage and empower the youth of Glasgow, ensuring that that they are equipped to shape its future.
The Heritage Champion Award will honour projects or individuals that have played a significant role in preserving Glasgow’s history and heritage while for the final accolade, the 850 Legacy Award, the judges will assess how projects, businesses, individuals and communities have created lasting change across Glasgow.
Richard Muir, Deputy Chief Executive, Glasgow Chamber of Commerce, who are partnering with The Herald in organising these awards, says: "As part of the momentous 850th anniversary of Glasgow, the return of the Inspiring City Awards is a fitting tribute to the city's enduring legacy and forward-looking spirit. These awards celebrate the remarkable individuals and organisations that make Glasgow such a vibrant and exceptional place.
"With two of the city's most respected institutions, Glasgow Chamber of Commerce and The Herald, joining forces to deliver this event, it presents a perfect platform to showcase the very best of our city."
Meanwhile, Billy Hammond, managing director, GTG training, sponsors of the Youth Empowerment Project Award, says: “We’re delighted to support this year’s Inspiring City Awards and help shine a light on the individuals, businesses and communities that continually strive to make a positive and lasting impact on Glasgow and its people and we are particularly proud to sponsor the Youth Empowerment Project Award, which will celebrate the projects that engage and empower young people across the city.
