Some of the most exciting ideas in funeral service begin with a simple question: What if there was a better way?

NFDA’s Innovation Award celebrates the exhibitors whose products and services are helping move funeral service forward through creativity, thoughtful design and practical solutions. If you work with a supplier partner whose innovation has made a difference in your funeral home or helped you better serve families, encourage them to apply.

Open to exhibitors at the 2026 NFDA International Convention & Expo, the award recognizes products and services introduced since January 1, 2025, that demonstrate originality, quality and meaningful impact. The winner will be announced during the Opening General Session on October 26 in Charlotte, with finalists receiving prominent recognition before, during and after the Convention through NFDA publications, social media, the Convention app and on the Expo floor.

Entries are free and will be accepted through June 30 at 12 p.m. CT. Applicants must submit a brief online entry along with a video showcasing their innovation.

Innovation doesn’t happen in isolation. If there’s a supplier whose creativity, ingenuity and commitment to excellence deserves the spotlight, encourage them to enter the 2026 NFDA Innovation Award competition. Learn more and apply at Suppliers.NFDA.org/Exhibit/Innovation-Award.