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Meet the 2026 Award recipients

The James Irvine Foundation Leadership Awards recognize leaders whose innovative solutions to critical state challenges improve people’s lives, create opportunity, and contribute to a better California.

The Foundation spotlights these leaders, helps share their approaches with policymakers and peers, and provides each of their organizations with a grant of $350,000 and additional resources.

Nominations are now open!

Nominations are now easier than ever. The deadline to submit your nomination is March 20, 2026 at noon (12:00 p.m. PDT).

2026 Award Recipients

The 2026 Award recipients are leading positive change in youth mentorship and mental health, civic engagement, higher education research, housing, and support for the frontline homelessness workforce.

2027 Leadership Awards Informational Webinar for Nominators

On March 5, 2026 at 1:00 pm, representatives of the Leadership Awards hosted an informational webinar to provide nominators with an overview of the...

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