CSG began presenting Innovations Awards in 1986 to bring greater visibility to exemplary state programs and to facilitate the transfer of those successful experiences to other states.
How do states submit a program for consideration?
Review the criteria for consideration to determine if a program in your state is eligible for an Innovations Award. Then download, complete, and submit an application to CSG by the annual deadline.
Criteria for consideration.
Newness - Will the program be between 9 months and 5 years old by the submission deadline?
Creativity - Does the program represent a new and creative approach to solving a problem or issue?
Effectiveness - Has the program achieved its goals and purposes to this point?
Transferability - Could the program be easily transferred to other states?
Significance - Does the program address significant regional issues or problems which are regional in scope?
How are state programs selected for an award?
CSG receives hundreds of applications for Innovations Awards every year. CSG policy experts review the applications and select the finalists. Regional panels of state officials evaluate the finalists and select two award-winners within each CSG region.
How are the awards presented?
The winning programs are traditionally recognized in a ceremony during CSG's Annual Meeting. In addition, the winners are showcased in CSG's national magazine, Capitol Ideas.
Contact Nancy Vickers, national program administrator at (859) 244-8105 or nvickers@csg.org.