About the Awards

Since 2019, the International Spice Conference has celebrated disruptive innovation in the spice value chain. The ISC 2026 Innovation Award honours projects that solve critical challenges, create new value, and open pathways to a more competitive, efficient and resilient sector. Winners are selected after a structured, multi-stage evaluation.

Who Can Apply?

• Open to all sectors of the spice industry; companies of any size may apply.
• One entry per company.
• Innovations must be implemented and beyond pilot stage (not concepts).
• Eligible entries include new products, processes, or technologies that advance beyond prevailing practice.
• Applicants submit the prescribed form plus evidence showing outcomes, scalability, value creation and market impact.

Intellectual property: You are not required to disclose proprietary/patented details. The platform will showcase patented products where applicable.

Transparency: Participation requires sharing sufficient data to enable fair evaluation. Relevant Certificates should be furnished on request.

Fees: A nominal participation fee may apply; AISEF members are exempt.

Award Categories

Gold • Silver • Bronze

How Evaluation Works

Pre-screening: Award Committee confirms eligibility and that required evidence is provided. Performance data is expected.

Jury: An independent panel of technical/innovation experts scores entries and may interview finalists to validate evidence (without requiring proprietary disclosure). Real-world application and impact are assessed.

Final score: 100% Jury. Winners are announced at the ISC 2026 Gala Dinner.

Evaluation Criteria

• Novelty & Originality – Uniqueness vs. existing practice; genuine step forward; early market signals (acceptance/feedback).
• Practical Application & Implementation – Successfully applied in practice with measurable impact.
• Value Creation – Tangible improvements in quality, efficiency, application, or market access; benefits to farmers, processors, or consumers.
• Scalability & Future Potential – Ability to scale/replicate and transform the sector long-term.

Validation requirement: Entries must include clear evidence of innovation outcomes (e.g., patents, performance data, case studies, third-party validation).

Key Dates

Recognition

• Customized award & certificate
• Two complimentary ISC 2027 passes
• The Award details will be mentioned in International Spice Conference (ISC) LinkedIn platform.
• Top 5 entries showcased in the Innovation Pavillion at ISC 2026.