2026 Joseph C. Belden Innovation Award Opens Nominations: Recognizing IT/OT Convergence Pioneers

11.02.2026

The 2026 Joseph C. Belden Innovation Award has officially opened its nomination period, inviting cutting-edge technologies and solutions that demonstrate significant impact across interconnected industries to compete for recognition.

Named after Joseph C. Belden, a pioneering figure in early telecommunications and connectivity infrastructure, this prestigious award celebrates innovations that advance technological boundaries and drive future industry transformation. With over 120 years of institutional legacy, the program recognizes breakthrough solutions spanning multiple verticals including:

• Manufacturing

• Energy sector

• Healthcare technology

• Telecommunications

• Enterprise systems

2026 Program Enhancements

This year's award introduces an expanded focus on IT/OT convergence, specifically targeting solutions that bridge the critical gap between information technology and operational technology systems — a pivotal area in contemporary industrial and enterprise innovation landscapes.

Selected finalists and award recipients will gain access to:

• High-visibility exposure to industry leadership

• Strategic networking opportunities

• Customized co-marketing support to amplify solution awareness

• Industry recognition alongside previous honorees in fault-tolerant computing and agentic AI platforms

Eligibility Requirements

Qualifying nominees must meet the following criteria:

• Small to medium-sized enterprises (annual revenue under $500 million)

• Products launched after July 1, 2024

• Minimum of one production customer deployment

• Subject to evaluation by an expert industry judging panel

Finalist announcements are scheduled for April 2026.

Critical Deadline

The nomination submission deadline is February 13. Organizations developing transformative innovations are encouraged to submit their applications promptly to secure consideration for this distinguished recognition.

Official Award Portal - Submit Nomination

Tags: enterprise solutions Telecommunications Innovation Awards IT/OT Convergence Industrial Technology

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