Public Interest Registry (PIR): .ORG Impact Awards

Overview

About the .ORG Impact Awards

For 40 years, the .ORG domain has powered the missions of millions of changemakers around the world. From individuals to large corporations, small community groups to multinational NGOs, .ORGs are home for those inspired to make an impact. 

The .ORG Impact Awards (OIAs) recognize the outstanding individuals and organizations using a .ORG domain to make a positive impact in their communities and across the globe. This annual program celebrates the incredible contributions made across all sectors of society and uplifts the work of those leveraging the Internet for transformative change.

Why nominate?

The .ORG Impact Awards celebrates purpose-driven achievements of members of the .ORG Community. Their great work will be reviewed by an esteemed judging panel composed of leaders in the Internet, nonprofit, and marketing sectors. 

No entry fee required.

Why Should .ORGs Enter the OIAs?

The .ORG Impact Awards honor the efforts and accomplishments of mission-driven organizations and individuals across the globe. The OIAs exist to celebrate your success.

Benefits

• Cash donations to a charitable organization of choice (subject to these rules) ranging from $2,500 to $40,000 USD to finalists and winners. (Note: in the event of a tie, the cash award may be split.
• A custom trophy for the winners. 
• A certificate for all finalists. 
• A dedicated logo mark for use on their .ORG’s website and materials to promote their achievements. 
• The opportunity to be featured in various .ORG digital platforms throughout the year, including articles, videos, social posts, etc. 
• The opportunity to raise the profile of your nominated .ORG to increase donor potential, partnership development, talent acquisition, and audience reach. 
• The opportunity to join and connect with a network of changemakers committed to making the world a better place. 
• Additional validation for your nominated .ORG’s programs that can help build, strengthen, and fund them in the future. 
• An invitation to an in-person networking and educational event in Washington, D.C.

Entry Criteria

• ORGANIZATION REQUIREMENTS - All organizations nominated to any category must have an active website hosted on the .ORG domain.
• INDIVIDUAL NOMINEE REQUIREMENTS - All individual nominees must have an established role at an organization with a website on the .ORG domain.
• NOMINEE AFFILIATION - The nominee must be the registrant, or affiliated with the registrant, of a second level .ORG domain name.
• WEBSITE URL - The URL of the website must resolve to a .ORG domain name. This does NOT include country domain names such as: example.org.br or example.org.au.
• ACTIVITY TIME FRAME - Activities highlighted in the submission must have occurred between April 23, 2024 and April 23, 2025. If the activity began before April 23, 2024 or extends beyond April 23, 2025, the entry is still eligible so long as meaningful activity occurred between the two dates
• SUBMISSION GUIDELINES -Organizations and individuals may submit to more than one award category, but each submission must be original (i.e., an entry for one award may not be resubmitted verbatim to another award).
• ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS FOR NOMINATIONS - The nominator must be at least 18 years old and have permission to nominate the individual or organization that uses or has a connection to the .ORG domain.
• NOMINEES UNDER 18  - A nominee may be less than 18 years of age. However, if a nominee less than 18 years of age qualifies as a finalist, they will be required to complete a consent form signed by their parent or legal guardian.

.ORG Impact Award Categories

The .ORG Impact Awards seek to celebrate significant achievements by members of the .ORG community.

• Health and Healing: Recognizes an organization or individual dedicated to advancing health and well-being in their community by ensuring access to care, resources, and support.
• Quality Education for All: Recognizes an organization or individual breaking down barriers to education, fostering learning opportunities that empower individuals, and creating pathways to a brighter future for all.
• Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion: Recognizes an organization or individual fostering a more inclusive and equitable world by breaking down barriers, amplifying underrepresented voices, and driving meaningful change that creates opportunities for all.
• Environmental Stewardship: Recognizes an organization or individual leading the way in protecting our planet, promoting sustainability, and inspiring communities to create a healthier, more resilient future.
• Hunger and Poverty: Recognizes an organization or individual who has made significant contributions and innovations to combat hunger, reduce poverty, and create lasting economic opportunities that uplift individuals and communities.
• Community Building: Recognizes an organization or individual whose efforts are strengthening the fabric of their community, fostering connections, and driving meaninful change on a local, national, or global level.
• Rising Star: Recognizes an individual under the age of 30 by December 31, 2025, who is shaping the future, demonstrating leadership, and driving impact through their passion, innovation, and committment to positive change.
• The .ORG Impact Awards .ORG of the Year - Recognizes an organization or individual for
  outstanding achievement as evidenced by results and/or contributions to its sector, constituents, community or society at large. The finalists in the other seven categories are automatically eligible for this award.

As the .ORG of the Year award will be selected by PIR, no submissions or nominations for this category will be accepted.