Nominations Now Open for 2026 Illinois Manufacturing Excellence Awards
Illinois manufacturers recognized for innovation, impact, and industry leadership
The Illinois Manufacturers’ Association (IMA), in partnership with the Illinois Manufacturing Excellence Center (IMEC), today announced that nominations are now open for the 2026 Illinois Manufacturing Excellence Awards.
For more than two centuries, Illinois manufacturers have powered economic growth and strengthened communities across the state. From feeding a growing global population and producing life-saving medical innovations to supporting national defense, advancing transportation, and powering homes and businesses, manufacturing remains the backbone of Illinois’ economy.
Today, manufacturers in Illinois employ more than 650,000 workers and contribute the single largest share of the state’s economy. Through innovative technologies, advanced processes, and a highly skilled workforce, these companies continue to position Illinois as a global manufacturing leader.
The Illinois Manufacturing Excellence Awards recognize and honor outstanding manufacturers and key partners across eight distinct categories:
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Champion of Operational Excellence
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Community Impact Award
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Economic Development Partner of the Year
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Educator of the Year (individual working for a community college, university, or high school)
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Innovator of the Year
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Safety Champion
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Sustainable Champion of the Year
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Workforce Excellence Award
Award recipients will be selected by the Boards of Directors of the Illinois Manufacturers’ Association and the Illinois Manufacturing Excellence Center.
Nomination Process
Any individual or company may submit a nomination. While government entities are not eligible to receive awards, they are encouraged to nominate deserving businesses and individuals.
Companies may be nominated in more than one category. Each nomination must include:
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Award category
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Name of nominee organization
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Address
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Nominee contact name and email
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Number of employees at the facility
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Products manufactured at the facility and industries or markets served
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Length of time in business
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Nominator name
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Nominator email address and phone number
In addition, nominators must provide a brief description (500-word maximum) outlining the reason for nomination. Submissions should highlight measurable impact, including commercial growth, cost savings, job creation, intellectual property development, operational improvements, or other transformative achievements.
The nomination deadline is 5:00 PM CDT on April 9, 2026.
For more information and to submit a nomination, click here.
