Nominations Open for the PROVADA Inspiration Award 2026

Inspiration doesn't always come from within. Sometimes it's the outspoken outsider, the passionate entrepreneur, or the determined professional with real grit who sets a movement in motion. People with drive — who keep going when others stop — and who don't just think up sustainable change, but actually make it happen. During PROVADA 2026, we'll shine a spotlight on these doers and changemakers with the PROVADA Inspiration Award 2026. Nominations are now open.

Who do you think deserves the stage?

On Thursday 11 June 2026, the Inspiration Award will be presented at PROVADA to a front-runner who has gone above & beyond in delivering sustainable change — within their organisation or across our field. Do you know someone like that? A hero (or heroine) who gets colleagues and the sector moving? Then this is the moment to nominate them.

The award is for people with a sustainable vision and a rebellious edge. Professionals who are innovative and distinctive, who create visible impact and bring others along in their story. Positive, collaborative, and not afraid to go against the current when needed.

During PROVADA, we will present the Top 3 nominees and turn the ceremony into a memorable moment in the Innovation Café.

The ceremony will be opened by Don Ritzen, founder of the social enterprise Shift. He will share his ambitious plan for a new world wonder in Rotterdam: The Shift Landmark. This iconic climate building — planned for the future Waterkant aan de Maas district in Rotterdam South — aims to inspire people, companies and organisations to take concrete action towards a sustainable future.

Previous winners: inspiration in action

Previous Inspiration Awards have gone to passionate innovators such as Gideons, Sebastian Monteban (creator of The Urban Woods), Mirjam Schmüll (the driving force behind MerwedeLab) and Bas Sievers. They show that sustainable change starts with people who take responsibility — and take action.