New for 2026. These categories recognize innovation by government ministries, public agencies, and municipalities across the Middle East and North Africa. Eligible nominations must describe innovative achievements since July 1, 2023, that have improved public administration, citizen services, talent development, or cross-sector collaboration.

Information to be submitted online for entries in these categories includes:

a. An essay of up to 3,500 characters describing the nominated innovative achievement(s) since July 1, 2023. Describe the organization’s innovation in at least three (3) of the following areas: organizational management, interagency collaboration, public engagement or citizen services, talent development and workforce reform, transparency and accountability, policy or program effectiveness, use of digital tools or data-driven decision-making, and cross-sector partnership.
b. Optional (but highly recommended), a collection of supporting files and web addresses that you may upload to our server to support your entry and provide more background information to the judges.

S01. Cross-Sector Public Innovation Partnership
Recognizes collaborative projects between public agencies and private, nonprofit, or academic partners that led to measurable public benefit.

S02. Innovation in Public Administration
Celebrates process and policy reforms in public institutions that enhanced transparency, efficiency, or citizen trust.

S03. Innovation in Public Sector Talent Development
Honors public sector programs that modernized workforce development, recruitment, employee engagement, or upskilling strategies.

S04. Most Innovative Cultural or Economic Exchange
Honors cross-border initiatives that strengthened mutual understanding and collaboration through culture, arts, tourism, or trade. Recognizes programs that created meaningful social or economic impact by bridging communities or markets across nations.