The James Irvine Foundation: News & Insights

Today we kick off an exciting month for the James Irvine Foundation Leadership Awards. We are pleased to announce that nominations are now open for the 2014 Leadership Awards. And in just a few short weeks, we’ll announce the recipients of the 2013 Leadership Awards. It’s going to be a celebratory, inspiring month!

Each year the Leadership Awards recognize four to six leaders who are tackling big issues in California and offering breakthrough solutions that can contribute to a better future for our state. We welcome nominations of leaders from all corners of the state and from any field – such as education, health, public safety, economic development or the environment – in the public, private or nonprofit sector.

Past recipients have worked on issues as diverse as providing mental health care for returning veterans, building vibrant communities for seniors, reducing youth recidivism and installing solar panels in low-income communities. What these leaders have in common is that they are advancing innovative, effective solutions to significant issues in California.

Please take a moment to tell us about someone who is improving California and nominate him or her for a 2014 James Irvine Foundation Leadership Award. The deadline for nominations is April 5, 2013.

The Foundation provides each Leadership Award recipient with $125,000 to support his or her work benefiting the people of California. We also support recipients in sharing their effective approaches with state and local policymakers and practitioners in their fields, with the aim of extending their successful models to benefit more Californians.

Since 2006, we have recognized 39 recipients of the Leadership Awards, including both individuals and groups. We can’t wait until February 4, 2013, when we get to introduce you to six new leaders, the 2013 Leadership Award recipients. These effective innovators are addressing a wide range of critical California issues: workforce development, water and resource conservation, regional transit planning, student success, immigrant integration and asset-building for low-income families.

Until then, we hope you will help us identify the 2014 recipients of the James Irvine Foundation Leadership Awards. For inspiration, check out the videos about past award recipients. We are excited to learn about Californians who are breaking through old barriers and demonstrating the ingenuity needed to solve tough problems throughout our state, and we appreciate your help.

Learn more About the Awards.

Nominate a 2014 California leader.

Frequently Asked Questions.