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The Ethical Edge: The 3rd Deignan Award for Responsible Entrepreneurship Launch

  • May 26
  • 3 min read

In the fast-paced world of startups, building a scalable business model is usually the top priority. But in today’s evolving market, the most sustainable competitive advantage isn't just about cutting-edge technology or aggressive growth—it’s about trust, ethics, and social responsibility.


As proud supporting units of the local ecosystem, Macao Startup Club is thrilled to invite our community to the official launch ceremony of the 3rd Deignan Award for Responsible Entrepreneurship, taking place right here in Macao on June 16, 2026.



Whether you are an early-stage founder or a growing SME, this is your opportunity to gain cross-border recognition, network with Greater Bay Area (GBA) business leaders, and discover how humanistic management can supercharge your venture in the age of AI.


What is the Deignan Award?

Jointly organized by Wofoo Social Enterprises (Hong Kong), the Macau Ricci Institute, and the University of Saint Joseph (USJ) through its Faculty of Business and Law and Sustainable Business Lab, the Deignan Award honors the legacy of Fr. Alfred J. Deignan, S.J.


It is the premier cross-border platform dedicated to recognizing Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in Hong Kong and Macao that demonstrate outstanding responsible business practices, ethical leadership, and a positive social impact.


The 3rd Edition Theme: “The Ethical Edge”

Commemorating the 100th birth anniversary of Fr. Deignan, this year’s theme explores a critical question for modern entrepreneurs: How can ethical leadership and humanistic management serve as a compass for business excellence in the AI era?


As artificial intelligence transforms how we work, startups that successfully turn ethical values into sustainable competitive advantages will be the ones that win long-term customer and investor loyalty.


Why Should Your Startup Apply?

Applications for the 3rd Deignan Award officially open on June 16 and run until November 2, 2026. If your enterprise has been registered and active in Macao for at least one year and employs fewer than 100 people, you are eligible!


Winning or participating in the Deignan Award gives your startup:

  • Prestigious Cross-Border Recognition: Elevate your brand across both Macao and Hong Kong.

  • Investor & Stakeholder Trust: Prove to partners and investors that your business is built on a solid ethical foundation.

  • Marketing & Media Exposure: Gain valuable visibility through the award's extensive GBA network.

  • Academic Validation: Selected winners will have the chance to be featured in case studies by the USJ Sustainable Business Lab.


Join Us for the Launch Event & Panel Discussion

To kick off this edition, a physical launch event and an insightful panel discussion will be held at USJ. Come learn more about the application process, get inspired by past winners, and network with fellow entrepreneurs.


  • Date: 16 June 2026 (Tuesday)

  • Time: 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM

    • 4:00 – 5:00 PM: Launch Ceremony

    • 5:00 – 6:00 PM: Panel Discussion – Humanistic Management in the Age of AI: Ethical Leadership in the GBA

  • Venue: Don Bosco Auditorium, University of Saint Joseph, Macao

✨ Special Evening Event: Following the forum, attendees are warmly invited to a Charity Pipe Organ Concert from 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM at the beautiful Igreja de São Lourenço (St. Lawrence's Church), performed by Fr. Stephan Rothlin, S.J.


How to Register and Apply

Don’t miss out on embedding "The Ethical Edge" into your startup's DNA.


Let's show the rest of the Greater Bay Area the incredible standard of responsible entrepreneurship we are building here at the Macao Startup Club. See you all on June 16th!


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Interested in joining the Macao Startup Club?


Become a member to connect with founders, innovators, and global startup ecosystems.



 
 
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