Frequently Asked Questions

Save Energy1.  How do I apply for a Sustainable Quality Award?  
First make sure you are eligible to apply by visiting “How to apply” on this website.

Applying for the SQA is a 2-step process:
a. SQA Nomination Form
b. SQA Application Form

Complete the SQA Nomination Form for your business. You can self-nominate your business or have someone else nominate you. Be sure to check off all the measures that apply to the nominated business.  After the nomination deadline, a Selection Committee will choose a group of finalists.  SQA finalists must complete and submit a detailed SQA application form summarizing how your company demonstrates sustainable business practices in each of the three categories: Economic Development, Social Responsibility, and Stewardship of the Natural Environment.  Detailed answers must be provided for each of the specific questions related to all three categories.

2.  When is the deadline to apply for an SQA?
Nomination and application deadlines are listed on the SQA Nomination Form. 

Awards3.  What are the benefits of my business winning an SQA?
In addition to receiving a Sustainable Quality Award trophy, winning businesses receive special recognition and media attention to highlight their success as a model business. Award winning businesses will receive:
a. Coverage in several local publications, such as BUSINESS Santa Monica, and local newspapers.
b. Access to SQA logo and promotional materials to include in marketing efforts.
c. Feature presence at the Chamber of Commerce SQA Luncheon ceremony, various public presentations and community events throughout the year.

4.  Is there only one award issued?
No.  All applicants deemed to have demonstrated excellence under the criteria can be recognized with an award.

SQA Grand Prize: Businesses who complete the entire application form and demonstrate excellence in all three categories are eligible to receive the SQA Grand Prize.

SQA Excellence Award: Businesses who demonstrate excellence in one or two of the categories – can receive an SQA Excellence Award for the appropriate category.

Many members5.  My business previously won a Sustainable Quality Award (SQA) – can I apply again?
Past Grand Prize Award winners may not apply for the SQA Grand Prize award within 5 (five) years.
If you previously won a SQA Grand Prize, you may not apply for a SQA Grand prize or SQA Excellence Award until after five years.  However, you may apply for an award in a different category within five years. Previous Excellence Award winners can apply for the SQA Grand Prize or in a different category. For example, if you won a previous Excellence Award in Social Responsibility, you may not apply in that category within a five year period, but you may apply for an SQA Grand Prize or an Excellence Award in Stewardship of the Natural Environment, or Economic Development.

6.  How are SQA winners selected?
All SQA applications submitted are evaluated by an SQA Selection Committee - - an independent panel of qualified professionals with expertise in quality, management, environmental policy, organizational development, strategic planning, and social responsibility. The applications will be reviewed according to a process and timeline. For more details see SQA application form

Colaboration7.  Can I get assistance with writing my SQA application?
Sustainable Works, a non-profit partner of the SQA program, hosts application workshops at the Chamber of Commerce providing guidance and tips on how to best answer each question and what supporting documentation to include. There are also examples from previous winners posted on the "How to Apply" page.

8.  How can I get assistance with implementing sustainable measures at my workplace?
Sustainable Works Business Greening Program provides the step-by-step tools & resources business need for sustainable solutions. Contact Sustainable Works at 310.458.8716 x2 or visit www.sustainableworks.org.