The inaugural edition of the CultTech Awards recognizes the people, projects, and institutions that are actively reshaping society through the intersection of culture and technology. This global initiative aims to spotlight meaningful work and connect innovators with a wider network of founders, institutions, partners, and experts.
Award Categories
The awards are structured across four distinct tracks to encompass the entire culture and technology ecosystem:
• Cultural Institutions: For museums, heritage organizations, and cultural initiatives utilizing technology to enhance access and impact.
• Ecosystem Builders: For hubs, incubators, communities, and networks that foster the growth of culture and technology.
• Startups & Scaleups: For ventures developing scalable tools, platforms, and products for the cultural industries.
• Education Programs: For initiatives shaping the next generation of practitioners in culture and technology through applied, interdisciplinary education.
Program Benefits
Participants and winners receive more than just an award, with benefits designed to amplify their work:
• Recognition: A dedicated platform to highlight significant contributions at the intersection of culture and technology.
• Visibility: Finalists are integrated into the CultTech Summit experience, gaining public exposure beyond a simple winner announcement.
• Connection: The awards are designed to connect promising projects with a broad network of founders, institutions, partners, and experts.
• Summit Showcase: Ten finalists from each category will be invited to showcase their work at the CultTech Summit, with travel and accommodation expenses covered for one representative. One winner per category will be announced during a live ceremony at the Summit.
Application Timeline
Key dates for the awards program are as follows:
• May 2026: The open call for applications and nominations begins.
• June 30: The deadline for all submissions.
• July – August 2026: A curated jury of independent experts conducts the evaluation process.
• September 2026: The shortlisted finalists are announced ahead of the Summit.
• November 2026: Winners are revealed during a live ceremony at the CultTech Summit in Vienna.
How to Apply
The application process is straightforward and open to all eligible parties:
• Step 1 - Check Eligibility: Review the specific criteria for each category to ensure your organization or project qualifies. Applications are open globally, and there is no entry fee.
• Step 2 - Prepare Materials: Gather necessary information, including a project description, evidence of impact, team details, and any supporting media. Ensure all linked materials are publicly accessible.
• Step 3 - Submit Application: Complete the online form before the June 30 deadline. Both self-nominations and third-party nominations are accepted.
• Step 4 - Evaluation & Finalists: Submissions are reviewed by a jury from July through August. Finalists will be notified in September.
• Full Application Brief: A complete guide, including judging criteria, eligibility details, and a submission checklist, is available for download.
Selection Criteria
Each application is evaluated by a panel of experts based on weighted criteria specific to its track:
• Cultural Institutions: Judged on Innovation in Cultural Experience (30%), Audience Engagement & Accessibility (30%), Cultural Impact (25%), and Digital Transformation (15%).
• Ecosystem Builders: Judged on Community & Network (40%), Ecosystem Impact (25%), Support to Founders / Creators (20%), and Innovation in Model (15%).
• Startups & Scaleups: Judged on Market Potential & Traction (40%), Innovation (25%), Cultural Impact (20%), and Team & Execution (15%).
• Education Programs: Judged on Educational Quality & Learning Model (30%), Integration of Culture, Creativity & Technology (30%), Talent & Professional Impact (25%), and Program Dissemination (15%).
Frequently Asked Questions
• Who can apply? The awards are open globally to any organization, project, or venture at the intersection of culture and technology. Self-nominations and third-party nominations are welcome.
• Is there an entry fee? No, submissions are completely free of charge.
• Can I apply to more than one category? Yes, you may submit separate applications if your work genuinely fits multiple categories. Each is evaluated independently against its track's specific criteria.
• How does the judging process work? An independent jury of experts reviews all submissions during July and August. A shortlist is announced in September, with judging criteria detailed in the application brief.
• What do finalists and winners receive? Finalists receive public recognition and an invitation to the CultTech Summit in Vienna, including flights and accommodation for one team member. Winners receive additional visibility, a trophy, and continued exposure through the CultTech network.
• Do I need to attend the Summit in person? Finalists are strongly encouraged to attend. The finalist package includes flights and accommodation for one team member for the ceremony in Vienna on November 4–5, 2026.
Applications are open to organizations, projects, and ventures from anywhere in the world, with submissions accepted until the deadline of June 30. There is no fee to enter. For any further questions, the Awards team can be reached at apr@culttech.at.