WIC Distinguished Contribution Award now open for submissions from enterprises worldwide

As the digital waves surge across the world and cyberspace charts a new course for humanity, there are always pioneers who map the path forward with vision and who drive changes with action.

The World Internet Conference (WIC) Distinguished Contribution Award is established to honor these outstanding contributors who are forging the digital future for humanity. It spans multiple sectors, including internet platforms, mobile communications, artificial intelligence, chip design, and beyond, enabling them to leave their indelible marks in the digital age.

The global submission for the 2026 Distinguished Contribution Award is now officially open. Breaking down the geographical boundaries and industry barriers, we seek individuals and enterprises that drive industrial transformation through technological breakthroughs, bridge the digital divide with a sense of responsibility, and empower future development with innovation and vitality. 

The Award will further galvanize global leadership, foster the diversified and prosperous growth of the internet ecosystem, and inspire all stakeholders to jointly build a community with a shared future in cyberspace.

Let your contribution shine on the global stage

Since its establishment in 2024, the Distinguished Contribution Award has recognized a total of 12 leading individuals and 26 renowned enterprises from around the world — establishing itself as one of the key benchmarks for global internet development, with the industry influence and exemplary role of award-winning enterprises continuing to grow.

Sharing this honor, paying tribute to pioneers 

Past award winners in the individual category

Industry leaders, responsible champions 

Past award winners in the Enterprise Category

Premier, multi-dimensional benefits with global recognition | End-to-end participation, lifecycle support, sustainable impact

(1) Your premier platform for top-tier exchanges

— Receiving invitation to attend the opening ceremony of the Wuzhen Summit, where high-level dignitaries will bear witness to your moment of glory;

— Gaining valuable opportunities to participate in the "Distinguished Contributors" special session, entering the premium circle of the internet industry and connecting to top-tier global resource networks.

(2) Lifecycle support — turning results into impact

— Connecting with industry leaders, getting priority participation in WIC programs, and expanding your global presence and partnerships;

— Getting extensive exposure across online and offline media platforms, driving more precise connections and efficient outcome commercialization.

(3) Ecosystem — sustained recognition & impact

— Receiving authoritative endorsement from a world-class panel of internet experts;

— Getting a trophy and certificate to recognize your track record as a shortlisted enterprise for the Award.

(4) Exposure — harnessing a globalized branding framework

— Coordinated publicity across multiple organizations with the opportunities for amplification via individual social media accounts, generating immediate buzz;

— Award-winning enterprises will receive trophies and certificates, while shortlisted companies will be announced on the official WIC website.

Submission guide

The Enterprise Category of the WIC Distinguished Contribution Award is open to all companies engaged in internet technologies, business models, or ecosystems, recognizing their active exploration and outstanding contributions in the sector. 

Applicants must recognize the mission of the World Internet Conference International Organization, comply with the basic criterion of the Award, and meet the supplementary conditions for their chosen category. Each company may apply for up to two categories. Previous recipients must wait for one cycle before reapplying for the same category.

(1) Social Contribution Category

Basic criterion

The enterprise proactively assumes corporate social responsibility. It sets relevant strategic goals and integrates them into its daily operations, promoting global sustainable development.

Additional criteria

The enterprise proactively engages in international cooperation and enhances connectivity, cultural exchange and mutual learning, digital economy and cybersecurity, etc.

The enterprise is a leading business in the industry and makes significant contributions to economic growth, job creation, etc.

The enterprise makes outstanding contributions to social development through other means. 

(2) Innovative Breakthrough Category

Basic criterion

The enterprise's core strategy centers on innovation, which is marked by substantial investments in innovation and the transformations of ideas into products, services, projects or business models, resulting in strong market benefits.  

Additional criteria

The enterprise develops product or service innovations that effectively address industry challenges and meet evolving market needs.

The enterprise establishes innovative business models that transcend traditional frameworks, maximizing value creation.

The enterprise achieves operational and management innovation, such as digitalization, talent management and process optimization, driving efficiency and enhancing overall management.

The enterprise demonstrates innovative breakthroughs in other areas, or leverages internet-related solutions to achieve other innovative breakthroughs.

(3) Growth Potential Category

Basic criterion

The enterprise has been in existence for no more than 10 years (officially founded on or after April 13, 2016). It exceeds industry growth averages and has built a competitive advantage within a niche market.

Additional criteria

The enterprise has demonstrated notable business growth in recent years.

The enterprise exhibits strong growth potential, driven by core competitive advantages in technology R&D, business development, business model, or operational management, with favorable future development prospects.

The enterprise shows exceptional potential for future growth through other means.

Apply Now — Join Us to Embark on a New Journey in the Age of Global Connectivity

Online Submission: https://awards.wicinternet.org 

Deadline: July 13, 2026, 17:00 (Beijing Time)

Contact:

Ms Zhao, +86-10-87931732

E-mail: contribution@wicinternet.org

Greatness drives contribution. 

Contribution drives greatness.

The WIC calls on all outstanding minds to make a mark and join us in building a brighter future together.