Kusum Kavia, CEO of CAI (Center), receiving an Innovation Award from MCIE President, Wallace Brithinee (Right) at a past Innovation Awards presentation. Awards are available in four categories, including: Processes, Product, Human Capital Development, and Marketing.

Ontario, CA: The Manufacturers’ Council of the Inland Empire (MCIE) has officially opened applications for the 2026 Manufacturing Innovation Awards, recognizing manufacturers across Riverside and San Bernardino counties who are driving progress through innovation, creativity, and measurable results.

Applications are open now through April 22, 2026, and may be submitted by manufacturers or their partners, including suppliers, customers, and community organizations.

The awards will honor one outstanding Inland Empire manufacturer in each of four categories:

• Resource or Process Innovation
• Product Innovation
• Human Capital / Talent Innovation
• Marketing Innovation

“These awards highlight the ingenuity and resilience of Inland Empire manufacturers,” said Dr. Wallace Brithinee, Board President of MCIE. “From shop floor improvements to workforce development and market strategy, manufacturers in our region are solving real challenges and setting new standards for excellence.”

Award recipients will be recognized at the 2026 Manufacturing Innovation Awards Dinner, to be held in Ontario, California, and will receive regional promotion across MCIE’s communications platforms, including newsletter, website, and social media.

The application process is designed to be accessible and impactful. Submissions include a brief description—up to 500 words—of how the company addressed a challenge through innovation, along with a summary of measurable outcomes and impact.

Eligible applicants must operate a manufacturing facility within Riverside or San Bernardino counties. Submissions are encouraged from companies of all sizes, reflecting the diversity and strength of the Inland Empire’s manufacturing base.

MCIE’s Innovation Awards program aims to elevate best practices across the region by recognizing companies that are improving efficiency, developing new products, strengthening their workforce, and bringing creative strategies to market.

Manufacturers and partners can learn more and submit applications at:
www.mfgcouncilie.com/innovation-awards

For questions about the application process or award categories, contact:
Debbie Smith — dsmith@mfgcouncilie.com

The Manufacturers’ Council (MCIE) represents manufacturers in Riverside and San Bernardino counties. Their efforts include promoting workforce development programs and policies for the region, as well as educating the public on the modern face of manufacturing in the region and the skilled trade opportunities that offer rewarding, high-wage careers.

MCIE’s membership comprises professionals, students, community members, and corporate leadership with interests in manufacturing in Inland Southern California.

The Manufacturers’ Council of the Inland Empire (MCIE) supports education and career training on behalf of manufacturers throughout the region, offering programming and expertise in a variety of topics including innovative workforce solutions. Visit http://www.mfgcouncilie.com or our Linktree at linktr.ee/iemanufacturing for more information on careers, events, and membership.