The Capital is once again searching for a worthy recipient of the coveted Edinburgh Award. Nominations for this year are open NOW.

Since 2007, this accolade has honoured individuals who have made remarkable and lasting contributions to the city, putting Edinburgh firmly on the national and global map.

The Edinburgh Award celebrates those whose outstanding achievements have enriched our capital and showcased it to the world. Past recipients have included extraordinary musicians, bestselling authors, pioneering scientists, human rights activists, and top-tier athletes – all of whom have left an indelible mark on Edinburgh’s legacy – and all have a cast of their handprints imprinted in flagstones in front of the City Chambers. 

In 2024, the Edinburgh Award was presented to Mel Young MBE, a visionary leader who has transformed lives through the Homeless World Cup. The global initiative now spans 70 countries, empowering over 100,000 homeless individuals annually.

Mel’s co-founding of the Big Issue in Scotland in1993 and leadership as Chair of Sportscotland between 2016 and 2024 also exemplify his profound impact on the city.

Edinburgh has four weeks to cast nominations for the 2025 award, before a recipient is selected by the Civic Awards Committee.

The Lord Provost of the City of Edinburgh, Robert Aldridge has urged individuals and businesses to nominate someone for the Award: “Edinburgh’s global influence over the last two centuries is thanks to the exceptional character, achievements, and excellence of our citizens.

“The Edinburgh Award gives us a chance to honour the individual whose work continues to make Edinburgh the extraordinary city we all know and love. I am continually inspired by the way Edinburgh’s people support one another, and this award reflects that community spirit.

“We are now in the 19th edition of the Edinburgh Award, and I invite everyone to nominate someone who has truly made a difference to our city. Now is your chance to help identify the next individual to be celebrated with the Edinburgh Award 2025”

Nominations opened yesterday (Monday 14 April) and close at 12 noon on Friday 16 May 2025.

To find out more and submit your nomination please visit the city council website.