The ACM Policy Award honors the contributions of an individual, or a small group, who has had a significant impact on the formation or execution of public policy related to computing. It may recognize establishment of an innovative educational or advisory program in policy, the development of technology policy organizations or resources, or other notable policy activities affecting the computing community and/or the general public. The biennial award is presented at the June ACM Awards Banquet in even-numbered years. It is accompanied by a prize of $10,000 plus travel expenses to the banquet.
December 15, 2026 - End of Day, Anywhere on Earth (AoE), UTC -12
The achievement cited must represent a major policy innovation or a significant ongoing engagement that has had broad influence on computing policy.
Nominations will be reviewed for the quality and impact of the individual’s personal contributions. If a small group is being nominated, the information must spell out why these particular individuals should be recognized.
Nominations for the ACM Policy Award should be submitted using theonline nomination form. Guidelines for nominators and endorsers can be foundhere. Each nomination involves several components:
For questions on the above, please contact us at[email protected], or Jade Morris, ACM Awards Committee Liaison. ACM'sconflict-of-interest guidelines apply to all award nominations.
Nominators and endorsers for all ACM Awards will now be required to indicate whether they are aware of any action committed by the candidate that violates theACM Code of Ethics and ACM’s Core Values. See thePolicy for Honors Conferred by ACM.
CORE VALUES
GENERAL ETHICAL PRINCIPLES
1.1 Contribute to society and to human well-being, acknowledging that all people are stakeholders in computing.
1.2 Avoid harm.
1.3 Be honest and trustworthy.
1.4 Be fair and take action not to discriminate.
1.5 Respect the work required to produce new ideas, inventions, creative works, and computing artifacts.
1.6 Respect privacy.
1.7 Honor confidentiality.
For questions on the above please contact[email protected]
ACM formally recognizes individuals for significant contributions to the field, ACM, or its interests. This recognition includes ACM Awards, Advanced Member Grades, and SIG Awards, collectively termed Honors. ACM expects individuals it honors to abide by the ACM Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct. Learn about the Policy for Honors Conferred by ACM.
