2027 Irvine Awards: Nominate Transformative Leaders in California to Receive $350,000 in Support

Overview

The 2027 Irvine Awards, presented by the James Irvine Foundation, recognize innovative leaders tackling critical challenges in California. The program celebrates individuals or leadership pairs whose work demonstrates impactful solutions that can influence public policy and improve lives.

About the Irvine Awards

The Irvine Awards are designed to spotlight leaders who are making a measurable difference in California through innovative programs, advocacy, or community-driven initiatives. The award focuses on leaders whose solutions address complex issues such as economic opportunity, education and workforce development, community resilience, public policy innovation, and social equity and inclusion. The program not only recognizes leadership excellence but also helps scale solutions that can benefit communities across California.

Award Benefits

• $350,000 in funding to support their work
• Increased visibility for their initiatives
• Opportunities to engage with policymakers and community leaders
• Strategic support to expand their solutions and impact

This support helps ensure that successful ideas reach broader audiences and influence meaningful change.

Who Should Be Nominated?

Nominations are encouraged for leaders or leadership pairs who:

• Are advancing innovative solutions to major challenges in California
• Demonstrate measurable community impact
• Lead organizations committed to public good
• Have ideas or programs with the potential to influence policy and scale across communities

Nomination Deadline

All nominations must be submitted by March 20, 2026. Late submissions are typically not considered.

How to Submit a Nomination

Nominate a deserving leader or leadership pair through the official link.