Overview
The Swiss AMCHAM SoCal Avantgarde Award is a prestigious accolade that recognizes the most impactful Swiss organizations, non-profits, or individuals operating in the United States. Often regarded as the "Oscar" of Swiss-American business achievements, this award celebrates excellence, innovation, and leadership in strengthening the economic and cultural ties between Switzerland and the U.S.
Significance
The Avantgarde Award shines a spotlight on organizations that demonstrate exceptional contributions to their industries, communities, and the broader Swiss-American business landscape. It honors those who embody forward-thinking strategies, sustainable practices, and a commitment to fostering cross-border collaboration. The award also emphasizes values such as diversity, equity, inclusion (DEI), and innovation, with a special Stewardship Award dedicated to organizations leading the way in circular economy principles.
History
Launched in 2023 by the Southern California Chapter of the Swiss-American Chamber of Commerce (SACCSoCal), the Avantgarde Award has quickly become a hallmark of excellence for Swiss entities in the U.S. The annual Avantgarde Gala, where the winner is announced, serves as a premier networking event, uniting industry leaders, academics, and government representatives from both nations.
Selection Process:
A distinguished jury of experts from Switzerland and the U.S., including representatives from ETH Zurich (ETHZ) and the University of Southern California (USC), evaluates submissions based on rigorous criteria such as innovation, economic impact, job creation, and sustainability. The top three finalists present their achievements in a live format, with the winner unveiled at the Avantgarde Gala.
Why It Matters
Winning the Avantgarde Award is a testament to an organization’s leadership and influence in the Swiss-American business community. It provides unparalleled visibility through media coverage, networking opportunities, and PR materials, while the winner earns a place on the following year’s jury, further cementing their role as a trailblazer in Swiss-American relations.
The Avantgarde Award is not just an honor—it is a celebration of the most impactful Swiss contributions to the U.S. economy, setting the gold standard for excellence in cross-border business achievement.
Significance
The Avantgarde Award shines a spotlight on organizations that demonstrate exceptional contributions to their industries, communities, and the broader Swiss-American business landscape. It honors those who embody forward-thinking strategies, sustainable practices, and a commitment to fostering cross-border collaboration. The award also emphasizes values such as diversity, equity, inclusion (DEI), and innovation, with a special Stewardship Award dedicated to organizations leading the way in circular economy principles.
History
Launched in 2023 by the Southern California Chapter of the Swiss-American Chamber of Commerce (SACCSoCal), the Avantgarde Award has quickly become a hallmark of excellence for Swiss entities in the U.S. The annual Avantgarde Gala, where the winner is announced, serves as a premier networking event, uniting industry leaders, academics, and government representatives from both nations.
Selection Process:
A distinguished jury of experts from Switzerland and the U.S., including representatives from ETH Zurich (ETHZ) and the University of Southern California (USC), evaluates submissions based on rigorous criteria such as innovation, economic impact, job creation, and sustainability. The top three finalists present their achievements in a live format, with the winner unveiled at the Avantgarde Gala.
Why It Matters
Winning the Avantgarde Award is a testament to an organization’s leadership and influence in the Swiss-American business community. It provides unparalleled visibility through media coverage, networking opportunities, and PR materials, while the winner earns a place on the following year’s jury, further cementing their role as a trailblazer in Swiss-American relations.
The Avantgarde Award is not just an honor—it is a celebration of the most impactful Swiss contributions to the U.S. economy, setting the gold standard for excellence in cross-border business achievement.
Eligibility
- Swiss-American Connection: Applicants must have a clear Swiss-American business angle, demonstrating contributions to both the Southern California and/or Swiss economies.
- Entity Type: Open to corporations, non-profit organizations, and individuals.
- Impact: Applicants should showcase inspirational achievements that have made a measurable impact on their industry, community, or the Swiss-American business landscape.
Evaluation Criteria
Submissions will be evaluated based on the following criteria:
- Innovation: Creation and/or adoption of cutting-edge technology and practices.
- Economic Performance: Demonstrated impact on economic growth, job creation, and business success.
- Stewardship: Commitment to sustainability, ethical practices, and community engagement.
- Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI): Efforts to promote DEI within the organization and its initiatives.
- Life Sciences Innovation (for Stewardship Award): Leadership through innovation, forward-looking and out-of-the-box thinking in the area of Life Sciences.
Submission Requirements
- Application Form: Complete the official application form provided by SACCSoCal using the buttons here on the page.
- Executive Summary: A concise overview (max. 500 words) of the organization’s achievements and their impact on Swiss-American relations.
- Supporting Documentation: Provide evidence of impact, such as case studies, financial performance, testimonials, or media coverage.
- Visual Materials: High-resolution images, videos, or infographics that highlight key achievements (optional but recommended).
- DEI and Sustainability Statements: Describe initiatives and policies related to diversity, equity, inclusion, and sustainability.
Selection Process
- Initial Evaluation: The jury, composed of industry experts, academics, and government representatives from Switzerland and the U.S., will review all submissions.
- Top Three Finalists: The top three nominees will be announced and invited to present their submissions in a live format to the jury.
- Winner Announcement: The winner and runner-up will be revealed at the annual Avantgarde Gala, held on Friday, November 8, 2024, at the California Club in Los Angeles.
Benefits of Participation
- Exposure: Gain visibility through AmCham media releases, social media posts, and coverage in Swiss and American press.
- Networking: Access to the Swiss-American business community and an invitation to the Avantgarde Gala for the top three finalists.
- PR Opportunities: Use the award as excellent PR material for marketing and branding efforts.
- Jury Participation: The winner will have the opportunity to join the following year’s Avantgarde Jury.
- Gala Discount: A USD 500 reduction on the price for a sponsored table at the Avantgarde Gala.
Key Dates
- Participants must submit their applications to by July 31, 2025 completing an online submission form here.
- Top 3 ranked submissions will be communicated by August 31, 2025
- Shortlisted organizations will be invited for presentation no later than September 15, 2025
Tips for Strong Submission
- Clearly articulate the Swiss-American connection and its impact.
- Provide quantifiable results (e.g., jobs created, revenue growth, sustainability metrics).
- Highlight unique innovations or initiatives that set your organization apart.
- Use compelling visuals and storytelling to engage the jury.
Submission Links
Past Winners
Become the Award Sponsor
The Swiss AMCHAM SoCal Avantgarde Award offers a unique opportunity to become the official sponsor or "godfather" of one of its two prestigious awards—the Main Avantgarde Award or the Stewardship Award. As a sponsor, you will not only align your brand with excellence and innovation but also enjoy a platform to deliver a laudation speech and a company presentation at the annual Avantgarde Gala, showcasing your commitment to Swiss-American business relations.
- Elevate Your Brand: Align your organization with excellence and innovation by sponsoring the "Oscar" of Swiss-American business achievements.
- Unmatched Visibility: Gain exclusive exposure to a global audience of industry leaders, media, and decision-makers at the prestigious Avantgarde Gala.
- Build Lasting Connections: Position your brand at the heart of Swiss-American business relations, fostering partnerships with top-tier corporations and influencers.
- Champion Sustainability and Innovation: Showcase your commitment to cutting-edge practices by supporting an award that celebrates forward-thinking and sustainable leadership.
