Accepting 2026 Top Lobbyist Nominations

LEARN MORE & NOMINATE HERE

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The National Institute for Lobbying & Ethics (NILE) is now accepting nominations for the 2026 Top Lobbyist Awards, recognizing 100 outstanding lobbyists, PAC professionals, and grassroots advocates from across the country for their accomplishments, leadership, and impact on the profession.

The Top Lobbyist Awards aren’t about who you know, where you work, or the size of your organization. They’re about merit, impact, and excellence.

Who Deserves to Be a 2026 Top Lobbyist?

Know a professional who made a meaningful impact this year? NILE is seeking nominations for individuals who, during 2026:

• Achieved significant legislative, regulatory, PAC, or grassroots advocacy success;

• Introduced innovative ideas, strategies, or approaches to their work; and/or

• Demonstrated exceptional character and a strong commitment to professional ethics and/or their community.

  
  

Federal and state lobbyists, PAC managers and directors, and grassroots advocacy professionals are eligible for nomination. Nominees do not need to be NILE members.

To ensure the awards remain focused on merit and professional achievement, all nominations undergo a blind review by fellow lobbying professionals.

Process, Deadlines, and Announcement

• View the nomination process details here.

• Nomination Deadline: October 2, 2026

• Winners Announced: October 22, 2026

• 2026 Top Lobbyist Awards Gala: November 2, 2026, in Washington, D.C.

Nominate Excellence

Some of the most consequential work in our profession happens outside the spotlight. The Top Lobbyist Awards are an opportunity to recognize the professionals whose expertise, persistence, leadership, and integrity are making a difference.

Student Advocate of the Year Award

The Student Advocate of the Year Award honors an emerging leader who has made a meaningful impact on a specific issue or lobbying campaign over the past year. This award acknowledges a student advocate who has exhibited exceptional dedication and leadership in the field, driving change and showcasing the effectiveness of advocacy. It highlights the next generation of influential voices within the lobbying community. Nominate here.

Help us recognize the people raising the bar for the profession. Nominate a deserving professional for the 2026 NILE Top Lobbyist Awards by October 2.

For Lobbyists - By Lobbyists!

Questions about the nomination process may be directed to Nicole Smith at nsmith@millerwenhold.com.

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