One standout initiative will ultimately be named the overall Innovation of the Year, continuing a tradition of excellence established by past honorees such as the JPMorganChase team, whose LLM Suite earned the Innovation of the Year 2025 award. Together, this year’s winners will set new benchmarks for creativity, collaboration, and impact across the industry.
American Banker Awards
Celebrating Excellence in Financial Innovation
American Banker proudly recognizes the people and ideas transforming financial services through two signature honors: the Innovation of the Year and the Most Innovative People in Finance awards.
Both programs highlight the creativity, leadership, and measurable results redefining what’s possible in banking. From breakthrough technologies to forward-thinking strategies, these awards celebrate the innovators driving meaningful progress across the industry.
Award recipients will be showcased and celebrated at a special gala during DIGITAL BANKING 2026, joining peers and industry leaders shaping the next chapter of financial innovation. Join us in Orlando, Florida, June 15–17.
Explore Each Award and Nominate Today
The Most Innovative People in Finance
The Most Innovative People in Finance 2026, a new annual ranking will celebrate 50 executive whose leadership, execution, and measurable results are redefining what’s possible in financial services. These visionaries exemplify innovation in action, transforming customer experiences, advancing operational excellence, and turning emerging technologies into meaningful business outcomes.
Their work represents the bold thinking and forward-looking mindset driving the next era of digital transformation across banking and financial services.
Innovation of the Year
The Innovation of the Year 2026 awards honor 10 groundbreaking initiatives redefining the future of digital banking. These awards spotlight the industry’s boldest ideas, featuring solutions that deliver measurable results, inspire progress, and accelerate digital transformation across financial services.
Why Submit a Nomination?
High-Profile Recognition: Gain prominent recognition through American Banker’s magazine, website, and social media channels.
Industry Validation: Highlight your organization’s innovation achievements to peers, customers, and potential partners or investors.
Exclusive Celebration: Network and share your success story at the DIGITAL BANKING‘s awards gala, where the overall Innovation of the Year winner and the Most Innovative People in Finance will be named.
