Nominations are open for the eleventh US Outstanding Security Performance Awards (OSPAs), part of a global programme now operating in 48 countries. The awards aim to recognise and reward exceptional achievement across the security sector.
Entry is free and available to companies, teams, and individuals who have demonstrated outstanding performance. Nominations may be submitted in multiple applicable categories.
The submission deadline is June 9, 2026, with entries accepted in the following categories:
- Outstanding In-House Security Manager/Director
- Outstanding Contract Security Manager/Director
- Outstanding Security Team
- Outstanding Contract Security Company (Guarding)
- Outstanding Security Consultant
- Outstanding Security Training Initiative
- Outstanding New Security Product
- Outstanding Security Partnership
- Outstanding Security Equipment Manufacturer*
- Outstanding Security Officer
- Outstanding Female Security Professional
- Outstanding Young Security Professional
- Outstanding Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Initiative
- Outstanding Security Sustainability Award
- Lifetime Achievement*
*These categories are not included in the Global OSPAs.
Thirteen of the US OSPAs categories will qualify winners for the 3rd Global OSPAs, scheduled for January 2027. Winners in these categories will automatically progress to the global stage. Details can be found here: Global OSPAs
The Lifetime Achievement Award winner will be inducted into the Security Hall of Fame: Security Hall of Fame
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This year also introduces the Outstanding Female Security Professional category, recognising women making significant contributions to the US security sector.
The US OSPAs ceremony will take place on September 13, 2026, at Global Security Exchange (GSX) in Atlanta, Georgia.
Judges for the awards are appointed by leading security associations across the US. All judges follow a strict ethics policy and assess entries independently. Criteria for each category and entry guidance are available online: How to Enter
Professor Martin Gill, founder of the OSPAs, said:
“These awards provide the opportunity for global recognition of exceptional performance. The awards are increasingly being recognised as one of the highest accolades a security professional or company can receive. Finalists and winners will be promoted not just across the US but across the world.
Notably, for the first time, our US Female Security Professionals can now be rewarded for their excellent work. We look forward to highlighting those who are exceptional at what they do.”