For the 19th consecutive year, the InvestBulgaria Agency (IBA) is organizing the prestigious "Investor of the Year" competition, which highlights the most significant investment projects realized in the country over the past year. The initiative aims to encourage companies that contribute to economic growth, job creation, and innovation while promoting Bulgaria as an attractive investment destination. 

With each edition, the competition grows in influence, providing a platform to showcase successful investment practices and fostering collaboration between businesses and government institutions. 

Extended Nomination Deadline and Participation Criteria

Applications for the competition are open until February 25, 2025, and nominations can be submitted by both Bulgarian and foreign companies that have made investments in Bulgaria during 2024. 

Companies can apply online through the official nomination form, providing details on the size of their investment, created jobs, implemented technologies, and market performance of their products or services. 

Application Form: https://investbg.government.bg/invest/

A special jury will evaluate submissions based on several key criteria, including: 

• Amount of investment made; 
• Economic impact and number of jobs created; 
• Implementation of innovative technologies; 
• Corporate social responsibility and sustainable business practices. 

Categories and Awards

This year’s competition includes five main awards – the "Golden Bull" statuettes, which will be presented in the following categories: 

• "Investor of the Year 2024" – the most significant investment project of the year; 
• "Greenfield Investment" – a project built from the ground up; 
• "Business Expansion Investment" – expansion of an existing enterprise or the launch of a new production line; 
• "Investment in Innovative Business" – implementation of new technologies and products; 
• "Investment in Human Capital" – companies that invest in their employees through training and development. 

In addition, honorary plaques will be awarded in the following categories: 

• "Investment with High Regional Impact"; 
• "Successful Startup"; 
• "Sustainable Business"; 
• "Municipality in Bulgaria with the Most Investments"; 
• "Investment with a Low Carbon Footprint"; 
• "Innovative Product". 

Ruse and the Regional Significance of the Competition

Over the years, companies from various regions of Bulgaria have been recognized for their outstanding investment projects. One notable example is “Bader Bulgaria”, a company from Ruse, which won the "Sustainable Business" award in last year’s competition. The firm is a key player in the global automotive industry and has been investing in expanding its production capacity while improving working conditions. 

Recognizing companies like Bader Bulgaria underscores Ruse’s role as a strategic industrial hub and demonstrates the region’s potential for attracting further investments. 

Why Is the Competition Important for the Business Environment?

The "Investor of the Year" awards not only recognize outstanding investments but also serve as an incentive for future investment initiatives. The honored companies gain increased visibility, strengthening their corporate reputation and facilitating access to new partnerships and projects. 

In recent years, Bulgaria has attracted a growing number of strategic investors, thanks to its favorable location, EU membership, and stable business climate. The "Investor of the Year" competition contributes to this process by showcasing best practices and promoting them within the international business community. 

How to Apply?

Companies can submit their nominations until February 25, 2025, through the official website of the InvestBulgaria Agency. 

Application Form: https://investbg.government.bg/invest/

Stay tuned for more updates on the competition and upcoming investment opportunities! 

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