The IRI Excellence Award for Innovation in Sustainability is designed to recognize recent outstanding achievements and innovative projects that have made a meaningful impact and significant contribution to sustainability efforts within an organization, industry, or more broadly. These efforts not only demonstrate leadership in sustainability but also set a benchmark for others to follow.   

The IRI Excellence Award for Outstanding Innovative Culture award celebrates organizations that have created workplaces where innovation is not just encouraged but thrives in the form of a true innovative culture. This award recognizes companies that actively cultivate inclusive, diverse, and safe environments where employees feel valued and empowered to contribute their ideas. These organizations understand that true innovation stems from fostering strong relationships, maintaining consistency, and upholding accountability across all levels. The recognized companies serve as models for others, demonstrating that a thriving, supportive workplace is the foundation of success in a rapidly changing world.  

IRI Excellence Award for Digital Innovation award honors individuals who have effectively adopted new tools and technologies to enhance processes, products, or services within their organization. By celebrating these achievements, it aims to inspire others to embrace digital innovation and take bold steps in advancing technology.  

The IRI Excellence Award in Scientific Advancement recognizes innovation teams for exceptional leadership and achievements in advancing scientific knowledge. This award celebrates teams whose pioneering work has led to significant breakthroughs, expanding possibilities and driving progress. By highlighting their contributions, it emphasizes the importance of scientific discovery as a cornerstone of innovation and celebrates the collaborative efforts that push the boundaries of knowledge.

The IRI Innovation Leadership Award celebrates visionary leaders whose exceptional contributions and transformative influence have significantly advanced the landscape of innovation.  Recipients of this award have been recognized as advocates and educators, demonstrating exceptional leadership in fostering a culture of innovation and inspiring progress across their field. 

• Category 1: Individuals from large organizations (annual revenue $1B+)

• Category 2: Individuals from other organizations (annual revenue <$1B, nonprofits, universities) 

The IRI Promising Young Innovation Professional Award is designed to celebrate and honor individuals who, at 35 years of age or younger at the time of their nomination, have already started to make a significant impact in the field of innovation within their organizations. This award highlights the achievements of young professionals who have demonstrated exceptional talent, creativity, and a forward-thinking approach, leading to meaningful contributions in their respective areas. More than just recognizing their accomplishments, the award also acknowledges these individuals as role models within their organizations and beyond.  

• Category 1: Individuals from large organizations (annual revenue $1B+)

• Category 2: Individuals from other organizations (annual revenue <$1B, nonprofits, universities)