About the Program

The American Bakers Association (ABA) is dedicated to fostering a baking industry that is second to none - an industry that attracts and retains top talent from across the nation. To celebrate the positive impact of the commercial baking industry, ABA is proud to present the Champions for a Better Tomorrow Awards Program. This initiative celebrates the remarkable work of ABA member companies in driving positive change within their communities, workplaces, and the environment. This program gives the baking industry a platform to share and celebrate the inspiring stories of innovation and leadership that pave the way for a brighter future. All ABA Baker and Allied Members are eligible to apply for the Champions for a Better Tomorrow Awards.

Award Categories

Community

Initiatives or projects that enhance and support local communities through charitable efforts, food insecurity solutions, volunteerism, partnerships, or social impact programs.

Workplace

Initiatives or projects that advance employee development, company culture and camaraderie, or employee well-being to create workplaces where individuals thrive.

Planet

Initiatives to minimize environmental impact through waste reduction, tree planting or garden development, clean-up drives, sustainable employee transportation programs, zero waste community programs, sustainability education, or other eco-friendly programs.

Additional Information

Applications should detail a specific initiative or program, its goals, measurable outcomes, and the broader impact it has achieved within the relevant category. A product (such as a piece of equipment or ingredient solution) does not qualify for the Champions for a Better Tomorrow Awards. Submissions are open to ABA Baker and Allied Members, both domestic and international, and must comply with the ABA Antitrust Policy.

Member companies are permitted one nomination per category per awards cycle. Because all submissions are recognized annually, previously submitted projects do not qualify for the 2027 Awards. Awards submissions are due February 12, 2027. Winners will be announced in May 2027 at the 2027 ABA Annual Convention.

 Please direct any questions to the ABA Membership Team at membership@americanbakers.org.

Application Process

1. All ABA Baker and Allied Members are eligible to apply for the Champions for a Better Tomorrow Awards. 

2. A non-refundable application fee is required to submit an entry. 

a. Early Bird Application Fee (before 11:59 p.m. EST on January 15, 2027) is $150 per entry. 

b. Regular Application Fee (starting January 16, 2027) is $200 per entry.

3. Applications should detail the specific initiative or program, its goals, measurable outcomes, and the broader impact it has achieved within the relevant category. Submissions are open to all ABA members, both domestic and international, and must comply with the ABA Antitrust Policy.

4. Deadline for all applications is 11:59 p.m. EST on Friday, February 12, 2027. 

Judging Criteria

Submissions will be evaluated based on the following criteria:

  1. Innovation: The uniqueness and creativity of the initiative.
  2. Impact: The measurable and meaningful results achieved, including the program's reach and significance.
  3. Relevance to Category: How well the submission aligns with the goals and focus of the chosen award category.

Please complete all sections of this application form. All submissions must adhere to the ABA Antitrust Policy. Incomplete applications will not be considered. 

Recognition for Award Recipients

Award recipients will be celebrated at the 2027 ABA Convention with onstage recognition and an opportunity to share their success stories during the event. Additionally, winners will be prominently featured across ABA’s communication channels throughout the year, including podcast interviews, social media highlights, and newsletter features. This recognition will amplify the visibility of their contributions and underscore the positive, community driven leadership within the baking industry.

ABA invites its members to share their achievements and inspire others by participating in the Champions for a Better Tomorrow Awards Program. Together, let’s celebrate the incredible strides our community makes toward creating a brighter tomorrow.