Academia Awards - IAC2026
The Industry Academia Conference (IAC) has been a beacon of collaboration and innovation, uniting academia and industry to shape the future of work. As we step into 2026, the conference builds on its rich legacy to explore the theme:
“From Gurukul to Boardroom – Indian Knowledge Management Systems in Present day organizations.”
This year’s conference on 12th-13th February 2026 at Hotel HOLIDAY INN, Aerocity (New Delhi), will feature the highly anticipated IAC Academic Awards, celebrating groundbreaking contributions that pave the way for future-ready talent and transformative education.
Context of IAC Academic Awards:
IAC 2026 emerges as a pivotal conference, uniting Industry Stalwarts and Academic Leaders in a dynamic exploration of Indian Knowledge Management Systems (IKMS) within the modern corporate landscape. This landmark event aims to bridge the timeless wisdom of the Gurukul with the strategic demands of today’s Boardroom, carving pathways for leadership excellence by integrating ethics, intellect, and collective responsibility in an evolving global era.
IAC has consistently been a platform for celebrating and recognizing the groundbreaking contributions of both Academia and Industry. In keeping with this tradition, IAC 2026 is set to host a dynamic and power packed Awards session, showcasing and acknowledging excellence in both realms. The IAC Academic Awards spotlight leaders and institutions who recognize this balance and foster groundbreaking innovation, mentorship, and transformation.
The awards categories are:
- Faculty Excellence Award
- Institutional Excellence Award for Integrating Indian Knowledge Management system into teaching & training
- Change Maestro & Institution Builder of the Year Award.
The details are as below:
1. Faculty Excellence Award
The Faculty Excellence Award recognizes visionary educators who bridge the gap between ancient wisdom and modern management. As architects of the transition from the Gurukul to the Boardroom, these individuals are honored for their commitment to embedding Indian Knowledge Management Systems (IKMS) into contemporary pedagogy.
Details:
1) Eligibility: Open to all institutions offering PGDM/MBA courses in India.
2) Institutions are invited to submit a PowerPoint presentation (maximum 11 slides) by 31st Jan 2026, explicitly detailing the Impact Assessment of each initiative.
3) The jury will decide the top 3 institutions by 7th February 2026.
2. Institutional excellence award for integrating Indian Knowledge Management System into teaching & training
The Institutional Excellence Award acknowledges and celebrates institutions that demonstrate remarkable innovation in bridging traditional wisdom with contemporary professional practices.
Details:
1) Eligibility: Open to all institutions offering PGDM/MBA courses in India.
2) Two Categories: Stand-alone Institutes and University B-Schools.
3) Institutions are invited to submit a PowerPoint presentation (maximum 11 slides) by 31st Jan 2026, explicitly detailing the Impact Assessment of each initiative.
4) The jury will decide the top 3 institutions in each category by 7th February 2026.
3. Change Maestro & Institution Builder of the Year Award
The Change Maestro & Institution Builder of the Year Award is a prestigious recognition for leaders in B-Schools who have demonstrated outstanding contributions to transformative change and institution-building. This award celebrates individuals who exhibit visionary leadership and make a lasting impact on the academic landscape.
Details:
1) Eligibility: Open to all institutions offering PGDM/MBA courses in India.
2) Nomination by B-Schools, Jury Members, or Previous Award Winners.
3) Stakeholders can submit one nomination by 31st Jan 2026, accompanied by a brief write-up detailing the nominee’s key contributions.
4) The jury will decide the award recipients by 7th February 2026, with no fixed number of awards, allowing flexibility in selection.
Annexure 1: Some Leading Luminaries to have addressed our events
Corporate Leaders
Annexure 2: Some Leading Luminaries to have addressed our events
Academic Leaders
Annexure 2: List of select participating organizations in our previous events
Corporate
Academia
