Innovation Awards

Minneapolis Innovation Awards

The Innovation Awards, managed by NMMA and judged by Boating Writers International, is one of the industry’s most prestigious honors recognizing manufacturers and suppliers who bring new, innovative products for the boating industry to market.

Eligibility: Contracted show exhibitors who meet the requirements outlined in the official rules and regulations are eligible for participation. All boats entered must be NMMA Certified at the time of entry.

Entry Steps:

1. Complete and submit the online entry form by December 11, 2025. The following items are required fields at the time of entry:

• Selection of one product category

• Product description (maximum 250 words). This description is not published and is reviewed by the Innovation Award judges only. The description should highlight what makes this Product new, innovative and different from other products available. Real differentiators will be more useful to the judges than promotional copy.

2. Upload required materials by December 17, 2025: Following acceptance of the product entry form, program management will provide a unique file transfer link (please allow up to 48 hours after entry). Access the link and upload the REQUIRED product photo, company logo and product video; along with any additional supporting material (photos, brochures, articles). 

3. Remit entry fee upon receipt - $450 NMMA member/ $550 non-member (ACH or CC, Amex not accepted). Must be fulfilled by January 9, 2026.

4. Meet with the judging panel: Ensure an onsite representative is available to meet with the judges’ Wednesday, January 21, 2026 before the show open. This meeting will be scheduled once entry has closed and will require the presence of the physical product.

Awards Presentation: Awards will be presented during the new Breakfast Briefing and Awards Presentation taking place on Thursday, January 22, 2026 at 10:00am at the Lifestyle Feature.

Innovation Awards Archive: Additional program details and winner history can be reviewed on the program webpage.

Questions? Contact Rachel Harmon, Program Manager at rharmon@nmma.org.

Learn more about the Innovation Awards Program Here

See Past Winners Here

2025 Minneapolis Innovation Award Recipients: Read more    

Aluminum and Non-Fiberglass Fishing Boats: Smoker Craft, Contour Package – Judge Bill Gius said, “The Smoker Craft Contour Package brings upscale, high quality, lake-like contour map paint graphics along with matching the SeaDek interior flooring trim designs.  A step up from even the most contemporary decal designs, the paint schemes provide durability and eye-catching appeal to the line.  Newly designed seating features the popular cool touch vinyl to help make the ride more comfortable."

Furnishings: Barletta Boats, Leggera Helm w/ Addressable Lighting –Judge Brady Kay said, “Barletta’s innovative application of the Shadow-Caster LED lighting system is showcased perfectly with its reimagined helm design that brings addressable lighting to a whole new level.”

Furnishings: Bennington, Retractable Keeper Rail – “Keeping aft seating passengers secure and comfortable, the Bennington Retractable Keeper Rail is now available on several models.  The high polish, stainless steel rail and linked chain system easily clicks into place for running underway or slides out of the way with the operation of three locking pin sets, to allow for easy access on or off the aft lounge and voluminous swim platform area,” said judge Bill Gius.”

Pontoon Boats: Princecraft, Vogue 25 RL – “The Princecraft Vogue 25 RL introduces new contoured side panels with a dual-skin design formed of smooth acrylic that is backed by an ABS structure. This material offers an outstanding finish and the opportunity to form complex shapes, is very durable and is lighter than fiberglass. It is the first time this construction has been featured in marine,” said judge Charles Plueddeman.

Questions? Contact Rachel Harmon, Program Manager at rharmon@nmma.org