Nominations Now Open for the High North Hero Award 2026
Morten Høglund served as Chair of the Arctic Council during the takover from Russia. He was awarded for great diplomatic skills during the 2025 High North Dialogue conference in Bodø, Norther Norway. By his side, Patti Bruns from the Arctic Mayors Forum. (Photo: Markus J. Thonhaugen/High North Center)
The "High North Hero" award will soon be awarded during the High North Dialogue conference in Bodø, northern Norway. The committee is now looking for worthy candidates.
The High North Center for Business and Governance at Nord University is now accepting nominations for the High North Hero Award 2026.
This annual award honors individuals, organizations, or companies that have made exceptional contributions to highlighting or developing the High North.
"We are looking for those who foster collaboration, uplift Indigenous voices, and develop innovative solutions for the Arctic's challenges", says Andreas Raspotnik, Director at the High North Center in a press release.
Celebrating 10 Years
Established in 2016, the High North Hero Award celebrates people and organizations making life better in the Arctic. In 2026, it's been 10 years since its first launch.
The award consists of a diploma and a prize of NOK 50,000, funded by Nordland County Council. Last year's recipient was former Arctic Council chair, Morten Høglund.
Nominations are open to the public, and nominees can be from any country.
Positive impact
"If you know someone whose work has positively impacted the region, we want to hear about them", says Andrey Kazakov, Award Coordinator.
Submit nominations and learn more about the criteria here.
The winner will be announced at the High North Dialogue Conference in Bodø in April.
