The AHR Expo (International Air-Conditioning, Heating, Refrigerating Exposition) 2021 Innovation Awards call for entries is open; entries will be accepted through July 28, 2020. The competition is held annually in conjunction with the trade show to honor the most innovative and original products, systems and technologies to be featured on the floor in Chicago’s McCormick Place January 25-27, 2021.
Exhibitors with a signed contract are encouraged to submit new or upgraded products. To request more information or to receive forms for entry, please email [email protected].
Regarding the COVID-19 pandemic and preparations for the trade show, AHR Expo Show Manager Mark Stevens noted on the AHR Expo website: “The COVID-19 pandemic has brought about unexpected challenges. But, just as professionals in this industry have adapted in order to provide essential services, we at AHR Expo are working within the current necessary health guidelines to offer a safe show experience.
“At this time, we are on for AHR Expo 2021. However, … we unfortunately do not have confirmation from the Chicago area government as to the full spectrum of expected changes and permissions pertaining to large events. With this in mind, we will continue to plan a show that delivers all the things AHR Expo has to offer and explore creative new ways to provide this experience where necessary.
“The health and safety of our attendees, exhibitors, speakers and the HVACR community is our top priority and we will make decisions with this as our primary focus.”
For updated information on the AHR Expo and COVID-19 precautions, visit www.ahrexpo.com/covid.
The 2021 Innovation Awards, Product of the Year
Debuted in 2003, the Innovation Awards provide an opportunity to highlight those in the HVACR industry who are pushing boundaries to create innovative solutions for new and existing challenges. What’s more, they honor the most inventive, useful and original products, systems and technologies disrupting the market today.
Winners are selected from 10 industry categories: building automation; cooling; green building; heating; indoor air quality; plumbing; refrigeration; software; tools and instruments; and ventilation. Entrants are evaluated and winners are selected by a panel of third-party judges representing ASHRAE. Recognition is then given to winners and finalists demonstrating true innovative design, creativity, application and performance, product and solution value and market impact.
In addition to category winners, one overall Product of the Year, selected from the pool of winners from all categories, will be named at the show in a special ceremony. This prestigious honor is awarded based on exceptional leadership in HVACR innovation.
The 2021 Innovation Award winners, as well as the announcement of the 2021 Product of the Year Award, will be recognized in a special ceremony during the 2021 show on Jan. 26, 2021. Additionally, winners will receive acknowledgement in print and online features highlighting the Innovation Awards in major industry publications, on the AHR Expo website, and on all AHR Expo social media channels.
Submissions and Judging
All confirmed exhibitors for the 2021 AHR Expo are eligible to enter the Innovation Awards and may submit one product in each category. Submitted products will not be considered if they have previously received an award. To be considered, products must be exhibited at the 2021 show and must be available for purchase by the end of February 2021. Completed entry forms, along with a nonrefundable $100 entry fee, must be submitted by July 28, 2020.
Entry Fees Donated to Local Charity
Entry fees for the 2021 Innovation Awards (approximately $20,000) will be donated to a charitable organization serving the local Chicago area community. The donation is generally used to provide HVACR repairs or upgrades. Each year, the AHR Expo works to select a charitable organization within the area where the Show is held.
For more information about the 2021 AHR Expo or the Innovation Awards Competition, please visit www.ahrexpo.com. Specific questions regarding Innovation Awards submissions can be emailed to [email protected].