Do you know a leader or leadership team driving transformative solutions to the most pressing issues facing California? The 2027 Irvine Awards are now open for nominations.
Presented by the James Irvine Foundation, the Irvine Awards recognize innovative leaders who are tackling critical challenges in California communities. The program celebrates individuals or leadership pairs whose work demonstrates impactful solutions that can influence public policy and improve lives.
Each selected award recipient’s organization receives $350,000 in funding, along with strategic support to amplify their ideas and share their solutions with policymakers and community leaders across the state.
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:
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Economic opportunity
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Education and workforce development
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Community resilience
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Public policy innovation
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Social equity and inclusion
The program not only recognizes leadership excellence but also helps scale solutions that can benefit communities across California.
Award Benefits
Organizations associated with selected leaders receive:
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$350,000 in funding to support their work
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Increased visibility for their initiatives
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Opportunities to engage with policymakers and community leaders
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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:
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Are advancing innovative solutions to major challenges in California
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Demonstrate measurable community impact
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Lead organizations committed to public good
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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.
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