The Aspen Institute’s Alliance for Social Trust has opened applications for the 2026 Trust in Practice Awards, a national initiative that recognizes and supports nonprofit collaborations working to strengthen trust within communities across the United States.

Social trust is the foundation of resilient communities, strong civic life, and effective problem-solving. Across the country, nonprofit organizations are leading powerful initiatives that rebuild confidence between neighbors, reinforce trust in institutions, and create the conditions for collective action. The Trust in Practice Awards elevate and invest in these efforts, providing financial support and access to a national learning community of trust builders.

About the Trust in Practice Awards

The Trust in Practice Awards celebrate collaborative efforts among nonprofit organizations that are advancing innovative approaches to building trust across diverse communities. Awardees become part of a national network engaged in shared learning, storytelling, and leadership development through Alliance for Social Trust programs and the annual Trust in Practice Summit.

The awards reflect the mission articulated by Aspen Institute co-founder Walter P. Paepcke: supporting leaders who strive for deeper self-awareness, stronger communities, and a more human-centered approach to solving societal challenges.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the Trust in Practice Awards, applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Applications must be submitted by a lead 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.
• Each application must represent a collaboration of at least three 501(c)(3) nonprofits, including the lead applicant.
• The collaboration must be implementing a trust-building initiative that strengthens relationships and improves trust levels within a community.
• Eligible organizations must be based in and serving communities within the United States or U.S. territories.

Award Amount

Selected collaborations will receive a minimum of USD 100,000 in funding. Additional non-financial benefits include:

• Participation in a national network of trust-building organizations
• Opportunities for collective learning and professional development
• Invitations to the annual Trust in Practice Summit
• Support for storytelling, impact sharing, and leadership development

Selection Criteria

Applications will be evaluated based on:

1. Impact on Community Trust
   The degree to which the initiative meaningfully strengthens trust within and across communities.
2. Strength of Collaboration
   Demonstrated commitment and leadership from all partnering organizations.
3. Execution Capacity
   The ability to implement the initiative effectively and sustainably.
4. Potential for Broader Learning
   Opportunities to share insights, practices, and lessons that can be applied in other communities.

Applicants are encouraged to review the full Guidelines & FAQs before submitting their materials.

Application Deadline

Applications close on Friday, January 30, 2026, at 11:59 PM ET.

Eligible nonprofit organizations can submit their applications through the Trust in Practice Awards online portal.

About the Alliance for Social Trust

The Alliance for Social Trust, part of the Aspen Institute, works to strengthen community trust through leadership, dialogue, and action. Its programs support organizations addressing some of the most pressing challenges of our time by fostering solutions rooted in collaboration, trust, and shared humanity.

Program Partner: Allstate

The Trust in Practice Awards are supported by Allstate. With a long-standing commitment to community impact, Allstate and The Allstate Foundation have contributed millions of dollars and thousands of volunteer hours to nonprofit organizations across the country. Their work emphasizes protection, community support, and building a more trusting and resilient future.

Stay Connected

Organizations and community leaders interested in future opportunities, updates, and resources can sign up for communications through the Alliance for Social Trust.

For more opportunities, click here.