About

The Hilton Humanitarian Prize invites nominations from across the globe to honor nonprofit organizations that have made outstanding contributions to humanitarian work. The process is highly structured, emphasizing demonstrated organizational achievements, strict eligibility requirements, and a multi-phase review system. Evaluation focuses on verified impact, financial transparency, and sustained operational credibility. Each year, the Prize attracts hundreds of nominations worldwide, all of which undergo a rigorous vetting process that results in a shortlist of finalists. The final laureate is selected by an independent international jury composed of distinguished experts. Nominated organizations are notified and invited to participate in a two-phase application process: the first phase involves eligibility verification and submission of organizational, programmatic, and financial information, while the second phase requires more detailed documentation from shortlisted candidates. Finalists are then assessed by the jury before the final decision is made. Organizations are informed of the results via email during the winter of the award year, and incomplete or ineligible submissions may be disqualified without further notice due to the high volume of applications.

Eligibility

Eligible nominees must be established nonprofit organizations rather than individuals, specifically nongovernmental, publicly supported charitable entities that have been legally registered for at least five years. They must provide audited financial statements covering five consecutive years and report expenditures exceeding USD 750,000 in their most recent fiscal year. Previous Prize Laureates, affiliated local offices, member organizations, and programs operating under larger institutions are not eligible. Academic institutions are excluded unless they function independently with their own tax-exempt status and financial reporting. Nominations must be submitted by a qualified, independent nominator with direct knowledge of the organization’s work; nominators cannot be employees, founders, compensated affiliates, or family members of key personnel. Each organization may have only one primary nominator, although up to four additional letters of support may be included. Nominators must submit a signed nomination letter in English through the official portal, adhering to specified formatting and focusing on past achievements. While current and past grantees of the Conrad N. Hilton Foundation are eligible, Foundation staff and affiliates are not permitted to nominate organizations. Organizations do not need to operate internationally, as both local and global initiatives are considered.