Third Sector runs two awards schemes, both of which are designed to set benchmarks of excellence and achievement for organisations and individuals.

The Third Sector Excellence Awards were launched in 2004. The awards celebrate achievement throughout the sector and include awards for lifetime achievement, human resources, fundraising, marketing and strategy.

The awards dinner is held in an exclusive London venue and is attended by 500 guests.

Third Sector readers nominate the organisations and individuals that they most admire in the sector. Chief executives of the top 500 fundraising charities are then asked to vote from the shortlist.

There are four categories: Most Admired Charity, Most Innovative Charity, Most Admired Chief Executive, and Most Admired Celebrity Charity Champion.