In times of economic uncertainty and increasing environmental demands, the combination of sustainability and economic success is gaining increasing importance. The German Sustainability Award (DNP) 2026 is responding to these developments with a comprehensive realignment that particularly integrates the European context more strongly.
This year's competition will be conducted according to the rules of the future European Sustainability Award, and the winners of the competition will represent Germany in 2027 as „National Champions Germany“ in the future new European Sustainability Award.
To meet the requirements of the European Sustainability Award, the DNP has revised its assessment procedures. The focus is now more strongly on how companies link sustainable business practices with entrepreneurial success. These adjustments are intended to ensure that participants are recognised not only for their ecological and social performance but also for their economic viability. Dr. Otto Schulz, Chairman of the German Sustainability Award Foundation, emphasises the importance of this perspective: „Especially now, it is crucial to understand sustainability as part of corporate strength and economic future viability.“
New size categories for fair evaluation
Another new feature is the introduction of size categories, which allow companies of different sizes to compete fairly with each other. The categories SMEs, Large Companies, and Corporations take into account the respective prerequisites and transformation achievements of the companies. This division is intended to ensure that competitive conditions are fairer and that companies with similar challenges are compared.
Greater visibility and benefit for the participants
In addition to the award itself, the DNP 2026 offers participants additional benefits. Finalists and winners will receive access to benchmarking tools, communication materials, and a European network. These so-called Impact Benefits are intended to help companies improve their positioning and further develop their transformation processes. The award ceremony will take place on 3 December 2026 in Düsseldorf and will be part of a larger congress format that promotes exchange and networking among participants.
European Perspective as an Opportunity
The European orientation of the DNP opens up new opportunities for German companies to present themselves on the international stage and learn from the experiences of other European firms. By participating in the European Sustainability Award, German companies can not only demonstrate their innovative strength but also benefit from a broader network and additional resources.
Source: German Sustainability Award Foundation
