CONEXPO-CON/AGG Expands Awards Program for 2026 Show

CONEXPO-CON/AGG, the largest construction trade show in North America, will expand its awards program for the 2026 show by introducing two new categories under The Next Level Awards: Equipment and Technology. Originally launched at the 2023 show, The Next Level Awards recognize innovations that help drive the construction industry forward. At the 2023 event, Holcim’s ECOPact Low-Carbon Concrete was selected as the Contractors’ Choice Award winner.

Nominations for the 2026 Next Level Awards open on August 19, 2025, and close on December 1, 2025. A panel of industry experts and leaders, soon to be announced, will review the submissions and select 10 finalists in each category. Attendee votes will determine winners during the show, which will occur March 3–7, 2026, in Las Vegas. Award announcements will be made on the “Ground Breakers” keynote stage on Friday, March 6.

"This expansion of the Next Level Awards exemplifies the commitment of CONEXPO-CON/AGG to advance the construction industry by elevating and celebrating its groundbreaking innovations that have an enormous impact on how we build our world,” said CONEXPO-CON/AGG Show Director Dana Wuesthoff. “By highlighting the most inventive products, services and technologies, we not only honor the pioneers driving progress but also inspire the entire industry to reach new heights.”

Finalists will gain additional visibility through CONEXPO-CON/AGG press releases, social media and other communication channels, helping drive traffic to their booths and awareness of their contributions to the field.

In addition to The Next Level Awards, CONEXPO-CON/AGG will debut the CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026 Exhibit Design Awards. This new recognition, managed by EXHIBITOR magazine, aims to spotlight outstanding booth designs from exhibitors at the show.

All exhibitor booths will be automatically entered and grouped into one of four size-based categories. The first round of judging will be conducted by EXHIBITOR magazine staff, who will select up to 10 finalists in each category. A panel of professional designers and marketers will complete the final round of judging on-site, also naming an “Editor’s Choice” winner.

Winners will be announced on the Ground Breakers Stage and will receive a trophy along with a scholarship to attend EXHIBITORLIVE 2026.

"We’re delighted to partner with CONEXPO-CON/AGG to lead the CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026 Exhibit Design Awards,” said Emily Olson, editor of EXHIBITOR magazine. “For more than 30 years, EXHIBITOR has recognized compelling and effective trade show design, and working with an event that prioritizes innovation in exhibit and experiential design is a natural fit. Our editorial team and panel of expert judges are eager to see the creativity CONEXPO-CON/AGG participants will unveil in 2026.”

For more information about eligibility, judging criteria, or how to apply, visit the CONEXPO-CON/AGG Awards and Recognition page.