Deadline extended to March 5. The National Civic League invites tribes, towns, cities, counties, and regions to apply for the 2026 All-America City Award, the nation’s most prestigious community recognition. For 77 years, the award has honored communities that embody the spirit of democracy through collaboration, innovation, and civic engagement.
2026 Theme
Across the country, Americans of all backgrounds and political perspectives are expressing growing frustration with a system that feels unresponsive, untrustworthy, and ineffective. Civic trust is declining, polarization is deepening, and many people feel disconnected from the decisions that shape their lives. Fortunately, democracy has never been static, it is a living system that can be renewed and reshaped through collective effort.
The 2026 award will honor communities that are reinventing how they come together to make decisions and solve problems. These communities engage residents, businesses, and public institutions in civic dialogue, collaboration, and community-building efforts that not only strengthen civic life and rebuild trust but also address pressing challenges and lay the foundation for a better future. By advancing innovative, community-driven approaches to governance, they are helping shape a more responsive, resilient democracy for the next 250 years.
Projects that fit this year’s theme might include:
- Collaborative problem-solving on education, housing, safety, or health
- Storytelling or arts-based engagement that surface community hopes and visions
- Participatory budgeting and citizens’ assemblies
- Civic leadership programs for youth, immigrants, and underrepresented groups
- Civic technology and local news initiatives that increase transparency
- Shared service projects and cultural exchanges that strengthen belonging
Application Process
The All-America City Award application process offers a unique opportunity to bring local groups together, highlight the people and programs that make your community equitable and thriving, and showcase your efforts on a national stage. The process consists of two stages:
The final application, due by March 5, 2026, should detail your community’s initiatives aligned with the 2026 theme and highlight the strength of your civic capital. Applications often reflect the leadership of diverse stakeholders, including local government, schools, nonprofits, community foundations, libraries, chambers of commerce, and youth organizations.
From the applications, 20 finalists will be selected and invited to participate in a three-day event in Denver, CO, June 26–28, 2026. During this event, finalists will present their initiatives to a jury of nationally recognized civic leaders. The event concludes with the announcement of the 10 winning communities at the closing ceremony, honoring them with the prestigious All-America City Award.
The All-America City Experience is truly one-of-a-kind, forging enduring connections with fellow participants from coast to coast, providing in-depth learning opportunities, and immersing attendees in fun, energizing events.
Join the nine communities from Maryland that have won the All-America City Award. You can view the full list of past recipients here.
Open Office Hours
To further support applicants, the program is hosting three informal open office hours to answer questions about the application process. These sessions are designed to be flexible; participants are welcome to join for a few minutes or stay for the full hour and may attend one or all sessions.
Office Hours Schedule:
- February 6 at 1:00 PM ET
- February 13 at 1:00 PM ET
- February 20 at 1:00 PM ET
- Register here: AAC Open Office Hours
If none of these times work for you, applicants are encouraged to email Rebecca Trout to schedule a one-on-one conversation.
These opportunities are intended to help communities feel confident, prepared, and supported as they complete their applications.
Begin your community’s application today to become a 2026 All-America City.
