Startup Grind is the world’s largest global community for entrepreneurs, with a mission to provide education and opportunities for startups, founders, innovators and creators to help them create, develop and scale their businesses. Launched in February 2017, Gibraltar Startup Grind has quickly become a prominent local Chapter, growing from strength to strength. Over the years, it has organised close to one hundred monthly events, contributing to the global success of the organisation. since its foundation. Today, Startup Grind hosts events in more than 600 cities across 125 countries, allowing Gibraltar-based members to connect with a global network and participate in events worldwide.

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The 2024 awards were organised under the theme “Local Excellence, Global Impact: Standards of Excellence Startup & Business Awards”. While Acquarius, with a history dating back more than a quarter of a century, may not qualify as a startup, the company, known for its dedicated service to private clients, is proud to be part of the wider business awards category. This segment celebrates the outstanding achievements of businesses that drive innovation and help position Gibraltar as a thriving global business hub. This year’s theme highlights those who have led international advocacy for "Gibraltar PLC."

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Acquarius was shortlisted for Community Champions CSR Excellence Award, alongside three other deserving candidates. As Startup Grind described it: “This award category recognises businesses and non-profit organisations that prioritise Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) by making meaningful contributions to the community. All nominees actively engage in initiatives that support local causes, arts, charities and social welfare, demonstrating a deep commitment to positive change locally. Their selfless actions help raise the profile of Gibraltar as a community-centred jurisdiction.

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In Gibraltar, the indefatigable serial PR guru Denise Matthews founded Startup Grind locally, and she remains Chapter Director. Since its inception almost eight years ago, Denise has dedicated immense time and effort to the organisation. Her work has been widely praised, and in 2018, she was awarded the “Rookie of the Year” Startup Grind accolade. Hundreds of local individuals and businesses have good reason to thank the organisation under her sterling leadership for the resulting benefit to Gibraltar in that time. 

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COO Gareth Cross noted that while winning awards is not the driving force behind Acquarius’ commitment to CSR, being nominated is always an honour - especially by such a respected organisation as Startup Grind. He expressed his delight on behalf of all Acquarius’ staff, as these awards serve to highlight the incredible efforts of those who make their businesses truly special.

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Looking ahead to 2025, Gareth emphasised that Acquarius will not rest on its laurels. The firm is committed to advancing its CSR initiatives, which will remain central to everything it does. In closing, Gareth thanked his colleagues at Acquarius, congratulated the nominees and winners across all categories, and expressed Acquarius’ continued support for the Startup Grind community moving forward.

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