Award Eligibility
To be eligible for the Indigenous Innovation Award, the nominee must:
Be a self-identifying Indigenous entrepreneur, organization, or initiative serving communities within Manitoba.
Demonstrate innovation that advances cultural preservation, economic development, or community well-being.
Be Indigenous-led or meaningfully engage Indigenous leadership and communities.
Have agreed to be nominated.
Judging Criteria
Judges for the Indigenous Innovation Award will evaluate nominees based on the following:
Innovation rooted in Indigenous knowledge, culture, or community needs.
Impact on Indigenous communities and Manitoba as a whole.
Evidence of sustainability, collaboration, or long-term benefit.
Contribution to reconciliation and cultural resilience.
Nomination Requirements
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Compelling Summary (max 650 characters) highlighting the nominee’s innovation and impact.
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Detailed Nomination (max 3,000 characters) outlining achievements, significance, and measurable outcomes.
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High resolution photo of the nominee or team.
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Confirmation that the nominee has agreed to participate and understands that, if shortlisted, they will take part in a professional video profile.
Key Dates
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Nominations Open: September 9, 2025
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Nominations Close: November 15, 2025
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Finalist Notification: December 9–13, 2025
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Public Announcement of Finalists: January 6, 2026
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Awards Gala: February 24, 2026
What Finalists Receive
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Recognition as one of three finalists.
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A professional video profile produced and showcased.
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One complimentary ticket to the gala.
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Spotlight at the awards ceremony.