The Award recognises an institution that has designed and delivered an exceptional approach to embed entrepreneurship throughout the university. The institution has developed its own unique understanding of what it means for the institution to be entrepreneurial, aligned with the environment the institution operates in. Entrepreneurship is at the heart of the institution not only nurtured among staff and students, but the institution itself also acts entrepreneurially and positively impacts a wide range of stakeholders.

The Award recognises an individual who has demonstrated an outstanding leadership performance in the development of an institution’s or (academic or support) unit‘s entrepreneurial profile. Entries are encouraged at all leadership levels, including but not limited to university, faculty, school, department, research unit, and support unit level.

The Award recognises an initiative that significantly differs from standard practice and created exceptional results for the achievement of the UN SDGs. The initiative stands out from the crowd as it either addresses a difficult problem that was not satisfactorily resolved before, or it has been scaled and makes a far-reaching impact.

The Award recognises an institution that has designed and implemented its own engagement approach to create greater value for the community. Deeply engaged with a variety of stakeholders, the institution can demonstrate a university-wide approach of community engagement and exceptional social impacts created through the approach taken.

The Award recognises a university that is highly committed to the protection of the environment. The commitment is made evident through in the institution’s resource planning and usage. Being a central element of the institution’s values, environmental protection is part of the institution’s culture and promoted among staff and students.

The Award recognises a support team that has shown an outstanding performance in facilitating innovation and entrepreneurship activity and outcomes. Entries might be submitted on different levels, such as an informal group or an established unit (e.g. entrepreneurship centre). Note that this award is NOT for entrepreneurship/start-up teams, but for those who provide those who aim to undertake innovative and entrepreneurial activities.

The Award recognises an innovation ecosystem (innovation district, science park, technology park etc.) that has made significant contributions to the economy and society. The ecosystem stands out by featuring innovative elements and/or presenting results that go way beyond traditional practices. One or more higher education institutions are required to be a key player in the ecosystem.

The Award recognises a "young" (5 years or less) support team that has shown an outstanding performance in facilitating innovation and entrepreneurship activity and outcomes. Entries might be submitted on different levels, such as an informal group or an established unit (e.g. entrepreneurship centre). Note that this award is NOT for entrepreneurship/start-up teams, but for those who provide those who aim to undertake innovative and entrepreneurial activities.