Outstanding rural businesses awarded

By: Trademagazin Date: 2025. 06. 13. 11:55

Hungary’s first rural business community bridging sectors and regions, the Modern & Stylish Countryside Business Community (MSVK), was established two years ago. On the occasion of its second anniversary, a Charity Gala was held, attended by representatives from more than 150 businesses, and awards were presented to rural enterprises that stood out over the past year for their value-based operations and community engagement.

Today, the community has over 70 members and was originally founded by 21 businesses with the aim of creating a platform for executives who share common values: respect for traditions, countryside style, exceptional quality, and a commitment to sustainability.

Rural businesses: economic and social impact

Rural enterprises are not only vital for local communities but also carry national economic weight:

Rural micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises contribute nearly 45% of Hungary’s GDP
They provide employment for over 60% of the private sector workforce
They create jobs, retain youth, develop infrastructure, and boost the rural economic ecosystem

Value-driven communities like MSVK actively contribute to the sustainable development of the rural economy and the advancement of entrepreneurial culture.

“Values that connect us – this is no coincidence as our chosen slogan. We believe that in today’s fast-paced world, value-based, tradition-rooted, long-term thinking is more important than ever. It’s heartening to see so many businesses operate on these principles – and seek connection with one another.”

– said Ida Petrik, founder of MSVK.

Working for a shared cause – HUF 6 million raised

The Charity Gala’s guest of honor was Nóra L. Ritók, founder of the Igazgyöngy Foundation in Berettyóújfalu. For 25 years, the foundation has been working to eradicate deep poverty in Eastern Hungary. Their unique methodology – based on art therapy for traumatized children – has evolved into a comprehensive community development program.

“The partnership with MSVK means real value for us – not only because such significant support was raised at a charity auction. We are grateful for this wonderful unity – beyond the donation, we feel the attention, the genuine care, and the authentic interest that allow us to think long-term. This cooperation means much more than simple help: it is a true partnership in driving social change.”

— Nóra L. Ritók, founder and director of Igazgyöngy Foundation

“We definitely wanted our celebration to be more than a self-serving event – we wanted to support a civil organization that addresses real social issues, ones that also directly affect rural enterprises.”

– added Ida Petrik.

During the evening, a total of HUF 6.1 million was raised – exceeding the originally announced goal – through a charity auction of paintings made by children from the foundation.

A unique gastronomic experience – a shared table for shared values

One of the gala’s highlights was a communal grazing dinner: a spectacularly set long table showcased the culinary creations of 35 MSVK members and partners – rural restaurants and artisanal producers – paired with their own wines, spirits, and non-alcoholic beverages. The dinner became a symbol of unity, showing how diversity, quality, and passion come together in one unique composition.

MSVK Award Winners of the Year

The 2025 MSVK Awards were presented in the following categories:

MSVK Event Venue of the Year: Deák Udvarház, Kakucs
MSVK Guest Speaker of the Year: Petya Balogh, angel investor, business mentor
MSVK Online Expert of the Year: Kinga Kalocsai, communication strategist
MSVK Gastronomic Experience of the Year: Rosinante Inn, Szigetmonostor
Top Community Contributors: Tímea Both (Herbsgarden Natural Cosmetics) and Mária Péntek (Toscaneria Kft.)