The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) is seeking nominations for "the nation’s highest honor for technological achievement," the agency announced Feb. 7.
Individuals, teams, companies and corporate divisions who have made "outstanding contributions" to advances in technological processes and products are eligible for the 2023 National Medal of Technology and Innovation, according to the announcement. The award is presented by the President at a ceremony at the White House, the USPTO states in the announcement.
"The medal is awarded to individuals, teams (up to four members), and companies or divisions of companies," the announcement states, "for their outstanding contributions to the nation’s economic, environmental, and social well-being through the development and commercialization of technological products, processes and concepts, technological innovation, and strengthening the nation’s technological workforce."
Under Secretary of Commerce for Intellectual Property Kathi Vidal past medal recipients have enriched daily life in the U.S. and the world at large, and whose "creativity and ingenuity" has inspired others to also "innovate, create, and pursue their dreams."
"Now, more than ever, we need to incentivize and protect more innovation, entrepreneurship, and creativity," VIdal said, "and bring them all to impact to solve world problems and increase American competitiveness."
Nominations can be made by submitting an online form and letters of support by 11:59 p.m. EST May 26; information on the award and the nomination process will be available on a webinar scheduled for 3 p.m. March 16 and on the USPTO website. The USPTO encourages the nominations of candidates from historically underserved and underrepresented groups.
"We welcome all nominations, including those from underrepresented communities whose ideas have advanced us as a society and a nation,” Vidal said in the announcement.
