In a rousing celebration of regional pride and impact, Sage – the UK-born global leader in accounting, financial, HR and payroll technology – has been named Community Business of the Year at the prestigious 2025 Chamber Business Awards, hosted by the North East Chamber of Commerce.
This honour recognises the enduring work of Sage Foundation, the philanthropic arm of the FTSE 100 company headquartered in Newcastle, which is celebrating a decade of community impact in 2025.
The accolade is more than a corporate nod – it’s a testament to Sage’s commitment to the North East, a region often described as one of the most economically and digitally excluded in the country.
Sage Foundation has stood at the forefront of efforts to reverse that trend, delivering programmes that empower underrepresented small businesses, equip young people with digital and STEM skills, and lift up local communities through strategic partnerships.
“This award is a tribute to the passion of our colleagues, the strength of our community partnerships, and a decade of committed effort supporting our communities,” said Helen Devanny, VP of Sage Foundation.
“The North East is one of the most economically and digitally excluded regions in the country, and we’re proud to be offering our skills, time and resources to make a difference here.”
A Proud Partnership With the North East
Sage Foundation’s local work is powered by a network of powerful alliances, with organisations that share its drive to create opportunity and remove barriers.
- Newcastle United Foundation (NUF): Through the NU Futures Programme, over 52,000 young people have been supported on pathways into STEM careers and employment, including 360 job placements – some within Sage itself.
“It is wonderful to see Sage Foundation’s outstanding commitment to community outreach work recognised regionally,” said Dawn Barber, Head of Business at NUF.
“Together we’re enriching the lives of thousands of young people… inspiring North East talent, stimulating economic growth and facilitating positive change.”
- Newcastle Rugby Foundation (NRF): The Tackling Insights initiative blends rugby values with tech-driven learning for primary school pupils. Since 2023, it has reached 1,500 children in 40 schools, promoting STEM skills and equal opportunity.
“We’re proud to have played a role in this award through our three-year partnership with Sage,” said Melanie Magee, CEO of NRF.
“It’s been a privilege to work alongside an organisation that shares our values and vision.”
- Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET), Education North Tyneside, and Northumberland County Council: Through the FIRST® LEGO® League, Sage has helped deliver hands-on robotics and coding education to over 31,000 students in 53 schools.
“Thanks to this partnership, thousands of young people have accessed over 400,000 hours of engaging, high-impact STEM learning,” said Elsa Scott, Head of Fundraising at IET.
“We’d like to congratulate Sage on receiving this well-deserved award.”
Flying the Flag for Business as a Force for Good
The Chamber Business Awards honour companies that embed community into their DNA – and Sage is a shining example of how a global tech company can stay true to its local roots. As it celebrates 10 years of the Sage Foundation, this award reflects a long-standing mission to knock down barriers for those too often left behind.
From boardroom to classroom, Sage is not only transforming how businesses operate, but how communities grow, connect and thrive – right here in the North East.
For more information about Sage Foundation and to watch its “A Decade of Impact” video, visit the Sage website.
