Think your government program is ground-breaking? Know of another that is? If so, consider nominating it for an Innovation Award from the Ash Institute for for Democratic Governance and Innovation at Harvard's Kennedy School of Government.

Awards are disseminated annually to programs that serve as the best examples of creative and effective government. Winners of the 2009 Innovations Award will receive a $100,000 grant to support replication and dissemination of the program, and while not a lot of money in the government spending world, it is an honor worth receiving. Unfortunately, it can't be used as a salary bonus, but don't tune out just yet.

This year, the program will also offer a special $100,000 award to highlight an achievement that transforms governance at the local level. The Innovations Award in Urban Policy will recognize the most innovative management and leadership idea that improves government services and the quality of life in our nation's urban centers and local communities.

All units of government—federal, state, local, tribal, and territorial—within the United States are eligible to apply for an Innovations Award.

Applications will be accepted until the end of September and winners are announced in the Summer or following Fall. Previous award winners may be found on the following website and in some of the articles below.

Additional information about eligibility and the selection criteria and processes are available at http://www.innovationsaward.harvard.edu/.

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