COSLA is pleased to announce that The COSLA Excellence Awards, the only awards that exist to celebrate the very best of Scottish Local Government, are back for 2026.
26th May 2026
The Excellence Awards are a fantastic opportunity for councils and their partners to recognise the great work, talent and innovation across Local Government. The COSLA Excellence Awards prizegiving ceremony for 2026 will take place on Thursday, 19th November at the Fairmont, St Andrews, as part of the COSLA’s Annual Conference.
COSLA President, Councillor Shona Morrison, said:
“I’m proud to launch the 2026 COSLA Excellence Awards, recognising the commitment, creativity and impact of colleagues across local government who work every day to support and improve our communities. It’s an honour to serve as Chair of the awards this year and to help spotlight the achievements that make such a difference across Scotland.
These awards are about celebrating the people behind the services – those whose dedication, innovation and hard work improve lives in ways that often go unseen.
I would encourage everyone in local government to take this opportunity to put forward your inspiring teams, individuals and projects.
Make sure your work gets the recognition it deserves! Submit your nominations and join us in celebrating the very best of Scottish local government.”
Council teams can submit applications across 5 categories:
- Category 1: Leading Innovation
- Category 2: Improving in partnership
- Category 3: Tackling inequalities and improving health
- Category 4: Strengthening communities and local democracy
- Category 5: Building towards a just transition
In addition, there are 4 special categories (to be announced) in which applicants from across the 5 main categories will have a further chance to win an award by our team of judges from COSLA’s senior leadership and across the public, private and third sector.
For more information read our website here: Excellence Awards | COSLA
Apply by 5pm on Friday the 24th July here.