Introduction
Albertans are known for their generosity, volunteering, hard work, community building, leadership and innovative spirit. These Government of Alberta award programs pay tribute to the individuals and organizations who have helped make the province a better place to live. Read their stories, share in our gratitude, and find out how to nominate the next award recipients.
Recognizing excellence
Created in 1979, The Alberta Order of Excellence (AOE) is the highest honour the Province of Alberta can bestow on a citizen.

See all award programs
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Agriculture
Alberta Agricultural Society Innovation Award – Recognizing agricultural societies for their innovation, resilience and commitment to their communities.
Alberta Agriculture Hall of Fame – Recognizing exemplary agricultural leadership and accomplishment in the province.
Alberta Century Farm and Ranch Awards – Recognizing farm families who have continuously owned and actively operated the same land for 100 years or more.
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Education and training
Alberta Trades Hall of Fame – Recognizing Albertans who have made significant contributions to the success and growth of skilled trades and apprenticeship.
China-Alberta Award for Excellence in Chinese – Alberta Grade 12 students studying Chinese language and culture can apply for this award.
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Families and community
Age-friendly Alberta Recognition Award – Recognizing communities who have taken steps to become more age-friendly.
Inspiration Awards – Recognizing individuals, organizations or business for actions they take to end family violence, sexual violence, child abuse or bullying.
Minister's Awards of Excellence in Child Development – Recognizing early childhood professionals to honour their outstanding commitment to excellence in quality care for children.
Minister’s Seniors Service Awards – Recognizing individuals, businesses, and non-profit organizations that make a difference in the lives of seniors and their communities.
Premier's Council Awards – Recognizing Albertans who help create inclusive, barrier-free communities for persons with disabilities.
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Healthcare
Dr. Peter B. R. Allen Lifetime Achievement in Health Award – Recognizing Albertans who have made a lifetime of positive contributions to the health-care system and improved patient outcomes.
Dr. William Cochrane Health System Innovation Award – Nominate an Albertan whose innovation has transformed the health-care system and improved patient outcomes.
Innovation in Mental Health and Addictions Care Award – Recognizing innovation and success in the field of mental health and addiction care.
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Innovation
Alberta Agricultural Society Innovation Award – Recognizing agricultural societies for their innovation, resilience and commitment to their communities.
Innovation in Mental Health and Addictions Care Award – Recognizing innovation and success in the field of mental health and addiction care.
Minister’s Awards for Transportation Innovation – Recognizing individuals and organizations for their work in advancing transportation in Alberta.
Minister’s Awards for Excellence in Public Library Service – Recognizing excellence and innovation in public library service delivery.
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Leaders in their fields
Alberta Agriculture Hall of Fame – Recognizing exemplary agricultural leadership and accomplishment in the province since 1951.
Alberta Newcomer Recognition Awards – Recognizing accomplishments of immigrants including youth, women, seniors, entrepreneurs, workers and community builders.
Minister’s Awards for Excellence in Public Library Service – Recognizing excellence and innovation in public library service delivery.
Minister’s awards for municipalities – Recognizing excellence in municipal governance and operations.
The Alberta Order of Excellence – Recognizing Albertans whose contributions have made an outstanding impact within the province, country or worldwide.
Sport, physical activity and recreation – Award programs – Recognizing extraordinary Albertan athletes, teams, coaches and officials.
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Making communities safer
Alberta Community Justice Awards – Recognizing individuals and organizations that have made outstanding contributions to preventing crime in our communities.
Alberta Emergency Services Medal – Recognizing emergency services personnel who are involved in supporting emergency prevention, preparedness and response.
Fire Services Exemplary Service Medal – Recognizing exceptional service for full-time and volunteer members of Canada’s fire service.
Law enforcement recognition programs – Recognizing the valuable contribution police and peace officers make to the security, safety and well-being of Albertans.
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Volunteering
Alberta Centennial Award – Recognizing outstanding Albertan students for service to their communities.
Alberta Northern Lights Volunteer Recognition Program – Recognizing everyday heroes who are helping to make life better in communities across the province.
Heritage Awards – Recognizing individuals, organizations, corporations, schools, municipalities, First Nation or Metis Settlement for their efforts to preserve Alberta's heritage.
Order of the Bighorn – Recognizing Albertans for their exceptional volunteer efforts towards fish, wildlife and habitat conservation.
Premier’s Citizenship Award – Recognizing students who have contributed to their communities through public service and volunteering.
Queen’s Platinum Jubilee Awards – Recognizing outstanding young Albertans who demonstrate leadership and community service, or talent in performing and visual arts.
Stars of Alberta Volunteer Awards – Recognizing youth, adult or senior volunteer who has contributed to the well-being of their community.