Recognition Programs
Honoring leadership in LGBTQ+ workplace inclusion.
For more than 20 years, Out & Equal’s Recognition Programs have recognized the boldest champions of LGBTQ+ workplace inclusion, celebrating those working to advance belonging for all. Through the years, more than 100 individuals, organizational practices and ERGs across a range of categories have been honored as role models for outstanding inclusive leadership efforts in their organizations and beyond.
Momentum Award Categories
Formerly known as The Outie Awards, The Momentum Awards are presented at the annual Out & Equal Workplace Summit, showcasing award-winners as LGBTQ+ inclusion champions and providing employer-of-choice visibility for winning organizations.
Nominations are now open exclusively to Out & Equal Partner organizations through July 15, 2026. If you know an organization, ERG, or individual leader whose commitment to LGBTQ+ workplace inclusion deserves recognition, this is their moment.
Workplace Belonging & Excellence
The most prestigious of the Momentum Awards is the Workplace Belonging & Excellence Momentum Award, which recognizes an employer that demonstrates a historic and ongoing commitment to advancing workplace equality for LGBTQ+ employees. This employer’s approach to LGBTQ+ workplace inclusion raises the bar and serves as an example for others, while supporting other organizations through active knowledge sharing and mentoring.
Employee Resource Group of the Year
The Employee Resource Group (ERG) of the Year Momentum Award honors a group with a proven track record of success. Top contenders are ERGs or BRGs that continuously elevate best practices, implement intersectional and collaborative programming with other groups, and advocate for LGBTQ+ equality in its workplace.
Inclusion Changemaker
The Inclusion Changemaker Momentum Award recognizes an LGBTQ+ individual who actively advocates to improve their organization’s inclusion efforts, pushes to adopt best practices that benefit LGBTQ+ employees, and advances the organization’s standing as a true leader in this work. Advocates are also boldly making a difference outside their workplaces, promoting change and equality in their communities, their countries and the world.
Ally Champion
The Ally Champion Momentum Award honors an ally who has made a significant contribution to advancing LGBTQ+ workplace equality. This person is an action-oriented and intentional changemaker. They are role models for others, uplifting the voices of marginalized groups, demonstrating a unique commitment to LGBTQ+ workplace rights and using their talents to further that cause, even when at risk.
The Arne Sorenson Vanguard Award
Named in memory of Marriott International’s former CEO Arne Sorenson, an exceptional business ally and bold advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and equality, the Vanguard Award honors those who are driving change in meaningful and lasting ways for historically overlooked and/or marginalized communities.
