Edinburgh is once again on the lookout for a deserving recipient of the prestigious Edinburgh Award, with nominations for this year opening today (Monday 9 March).
Now celebrating its 20th year, the Edinburgh Award honours outstanding individuals whose achievements have brought distinction to the city and helped shape Edinburgh’s reputation as a global centre of ideas, culture, innovation and compassion.
Since its inception in 2007, the Award has honoured individuals whose work has left a lasting legacy. From acclaimed artists and pioneering scientists to sporting heroes and social changemakers, each recipient has helped put Edinburgh on the national and international map. Their handprints are permanently cast into the flagstones outside the City Chambers, a lasting tribute at the heart of the capital.
In 2025, the Edinburgh Award was presented to Ali Bowden, the first Director of Edinburgh UNESCO City of Literature who, whilst in her role, created a diverse and engaging range of projects and programmes to enhance our literary city and played a key role in connecting Edinburgh with other literary cities around the world.
Edinburgh has four weeks to nominate for the 2026 award, before a recipient is selected by the Civic Awards Committee.
City of Edinburgh Council – reception for the Edinburgh Award 2024 recipient Mel Young
The Lord Provost of the City of Edinburgh, Robert Aldridge has urged individuals and businesses to nominate:
The Edinburgh Award gives us a chance to honour the individuals whose work and achievements continue to make Edinburgh the extraordinary city we all know and love. I am continually inspired by the way Edinburgh’s people support one another, and this award reflects that community spirit.
As we mark the 20th Edinburgh Award this is an opportunity to not only reflect on the outstanding individuals who have shaped our past but also to recognise those whose work is influencing our future. I encourage everyone to consider who inspires them, who goes above and beyond to make Edinburgh stronger, fairer, more innovative and has made a difference to our city and please submit a nomination.”
Nominations open today Monday 9 March and close at 12 noon on Friday 10 April 2026.
To find out more and submit nomination please visit our website.
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