This year, which celebrates the 15th year of the awards, saw an increase in entries, particularly in the categories Sustainable Partnerships and Youth Development.

Among the businesses who have been recognised as finalists are large corporates Sasol, KWV, Old Mutual, De Beers and Santam, while smaller businesses include HR Consultancy Pinpoint one and the Beacon Isle Resort.

“We are delighted at the depth and scope of this year’s nomi-nations which demonstrate how the arts continue to offer great opportunities to strategically align brands, says  Basa CEO Michelle Constant.

Nominations were made in 12 categories and the Art Champion and Chairman’s Premier Award will be presented at a gala ceremony in Joburg on August 27.

 Some of the categories include First Time Sponsor, Innovation, Mentor of the Year and Increasing Access to the Arts.  

The judges are CEO of The Loerie Awards Dr Andrew Human (chairman); media consultant and editor of Destiny Man Kojo Baffoe; Sunday Independent arts critic Mary Corrigall; independent arts consultant Nicky du Plessis; CEO of the Mastrantonio Group Giovanni Mariano; co-founder and co-owner of multi-disciplinary design firm INK Lisebo Mokhesi and Associate Professor at the University of Cape Town and Artistic Director of Siwela Sonke Jay Pather.