The search is on: 2026 Joseph C. Belden Innovation Award nominations are open

Nominations for the 2026 Joseph C. Belden Innovation Award are open, honoring technologies that advance connected industries. Named after Joseph C. Belden, the award focuses on innovations like IT/OT convergence. Eligible participants are small or medium companies with recent product launches. The nomination deadline is February 13, emphasizing the importance of recognizing technological advancements.

Key Points

• Nominations for the 2026 Joseph C. Belden Innovation Award opened.
• The award celebrates impactful innovations in connected industries.
• Focus expanded to include IT/OT convergence, recognizing tech bridging IT and operational systems.
• Eligible nominees must be small/medium companies (under $500 million) with products launched after July 1, 2024.
• Finalists will be announced in April 2026, with a submission deadline of February 13.

Relevance

• Reflects the current trend of IT/OT convergence in industrial sectors, a key aspect of 2025 IT trends.
• Nurtures innovation in a rapidly evolving tech landscape, similar to past awards fostering advancements in telecommunications and connectivity.
• Aligns with ongoing discussions around the importance of recognizing and rewarding technological advancements.

The 2026 Joseph C. Belden Innovation Award aims to spotlight groundbreaking solutions, emphasizing the significance of innovation in IT/OT convergence, while offering recognition and support to emerging technologies in various industries.