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The Global Institute on Innovation Districts
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Global Summit Awards

We’re excited to announce three new awards designed to recognize exceptional achievements in innovation districts. In this section, we’ll walk you through the specific criteria for each award, as well as the process for applying.

Whether you’re an individual or an organization, our goal is to celebrate and support your hard work and innovation. Keep reading to learn more about each award and what it takes to apply to the GIID Awards presented during the Global Summit on Thursday, April 10th in Monterrey, Mexico. 

Learn more below and submit your application by Wednesday, April 2!

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GIID Awards Info Session

Thank you for all those who joined us for the 2025 GIID Awards Info Session! If you were not able to attend, please feel free to reference the recording or the FAQ’s below to learn more about GIID’s inaugural awards. Still have questions? Reach out to us at fhussain@giid.org – we’re here to help!

Applications Open March 21
Applications Close April 2

Winners announced live at
Awards Dinner April 10, 2025

Award FAQ’s

  • Why has GIID created these new awards?
    The purpose of these awards is to elevate the role of innovation districts and recognize the impact they have on local, regional, and global R&D specializations. The awards are also designed to acknowledge individuals, known as “district champions,” who are visionaries and leaders within the field district qualifies for the Trailblazer Award if it is early in its development but already making significant progress. It could be innovating in areas such as: 
    • Governance structure. 
    • Land use strategies. 
    • Building innovative ecosystems for research and development (R&D). Trailblazers are considered to be districts “out of the gate early” and making an impact in their field.  
  • What is the difference between the Trailblazer and Lighthouse Awards?  
    A district qualifies for the Trailblazer Award if it is early in its development but already making significant progress. It could be innovating in areas such as: 
    • Trailblazer Award: Given to an early-stage district that is still establishing its path. This district may be experimenting with governance structures, land use, and ways to foster an innovation ecosystem. 
    • Lighthouse Award: Given to a more established district that has demonstrated a more mature impact. This district may have undergone governance restructuring or evolved its strategy over time to foster a thriving innovation ecosystem. 
      Note: The categories are not strictly defined by a set number of years or specific metrics, but focus on the district’s development stage and impact.
  • What qualifies a district for the Trailblazer Award?  
    A district qualifies for the Trailblazer Award if it is early in its development but already making significant progress. It could be innovating in areas such as:
    • Governance structure.
    • Land use strategies.
    • Building innovative ecosystems for research and development (R&D). Trailblazers are considered to be districts “out of the gate early” and making an impact in their field. 
  • What qualifies a district for the Lighthouse Award?  
    A district qualifies for the Lighthouse Award if it has matured over time, with demonstrated impacts such as: 
    • Evolution in governance structure. 
    • Changes in land use to foster innovation. 
    • Development of R&D specializations and entrepreneurial ecosystems. 
    • Pivoting strategies (e.g., shifting focus to key R&D areas after exploring multiple specializations). 
  • How do you define “established” for a district?  
    The term “established” for a district can be defined by the following criteria:
    • Physical Presence: There are buildings or infrastructure already in operation with people on-site, though the district does not necessarily need to own or operate these buildings. 
    • Active Programming: The district is running programs, such as scholarship or training initiatives, that show intentional impact. 
    • “Shovels in the Ground”: There is a plan in place with tangible steps already being implemented, such as land development. 
       
  • What criteria should be considered when applying for the District Champion Award? 
    The District Champion Award is for individuals who have demonstrated extraordinary leadership and vision in advancing their district. Key qualities include: 
    • Strong leadership within their district. 
    • Demonstrated expertise in their field, regardless of years of experience. 
    • Commitment to their district’s success and impact. 
    • Engagement with other districts, sharing expertise, and contributing to the field’s growth. 
  • Does the District Champion need to have years of experience in the field? 
    No, the District Champion does not need to have decades of experience. While some district champions may have years of experience, the award recognizes individuals with: 
    • The ability to drive their district forward 
    • A role in communicating with other districts, especially newer ones 
    • Tangible contributions to the success of their district, showing a clear impact on the growth of innovation ecosystems 
  • What materials do I need to submit for my application? 
    You need to submit the application form and a case statement describing why your district should be recognized. This can include details about your district’s impact, specializations, and any other relevant information. You may also include supplementary materials, like an impact report, annual report, or photos illustrating your district’s impact. 
  • Can I submit my application in a language other than English? 
    While the case statement must be submitted in English, supplementary materials can be submitted in other languages. 
  • How will the awards be managed?  
    Innovation Districts that have already registered for the summit will complete their application form through their District Profile request (sent to registered Innovation Districts on March 18). Districts or individuals who are not registered can complete the public form on the website. If you have any questions about which form you should be completing, please reach out to Fatima Hussain at fhussain@giid.org.
  • What is the timeline for the awards? 
    While the timeline is short, the application process is brief and straightforward – this is intentional to avoid a lengthy process for participants.
    • The deadline to submit applications is Wednesday, April 2.  
    • Shortlisted applicants will be informed on Friday, April 4 and invited to prepare remarks in the event that they are selected for the award. 
    • The Award winners will be announced live at the Awards Banquet on Thursday, April 10. 
  • What if I am not registered for the Global Summit but want to apply for an award? 
    If you are not registered, but would like to purchase a ticket to attend the Awards Dinner on Thurday, April 10, please contact Fatima Hussain at fhussain@giid.org to purchase a Thursday-only ticket. If you or a representative are not able to attend in person, please inform us so that we can arrange for a prepared statement to be shared on your behalf.  

Questions?

If you have any questions or need assistance with your application, please reach out to Fatima Hussain at fhussain@GIID.org

Celebrate with us!

Global Summit Awards Dinner

The Awards Ceremony will be the highlight of the Global Summit. Join us to celebrate the achievements of innovation districts and the individuals leading driving them forward.

Thursday, April 10th

5:30 – 9:30 PM

Horno3

Monterrey, N.L., Mexico

View Program