Cloud computing has become so woven into daily business life that it’s almost invisible. It’s the electricity of the digital era — humming quietly in the background, keeping everything from AI to accounting running. By 2026, cloud and data center infrastructure have gone from cost centers to strategic powerhouses. The next wave of competition isn’t just about uptime or speed — it’s about flexibility, security, and sustainability.
That’s where cloud and data center awards step in. These programs highlight the companies, leaders, and products turning infrastructure into innovation. Here are ten of the top programs for 2026, with the Stratus Awards for Cloud Computing, hosted by Business Intelligence Group, sitting confidently at #1.
1. Stratus Awards for Cloud Computing
Deadline: August 7, 2026
https://www.bintelligence.com/awards/stratus-award-for-cloud-computing
The Stratus Awards, run by Business Intelligence Group, celebrate excellence across the full cloud and data center spectrum. Whether you’re managing hybrid architectures, developing edge computing solutions, or advancing cloud security, this program recognizes tangible innovation.
What makes it stand out is its focus on business outcomes. The judges — seasoned business executives — look for impact that goes beyond tech specs. Winners here are organizations using cloud computing to create real strategic advantage, improve performance, or reshape industries.
It’s broad enough to welcome all sectors but focused enough to feel meaningful. If your work touches cloud services, infrastructure, or data orchestration, this is your home base.
2. Cloud Awards
Deadline: July 2026
https://www.cloud-awards.com/
A long-running, international program covering SaaS, IaaS, and PaaS. The Cloud Awards recognize innovation, scalability, and customer value across dozens of categories.
3. DCS Awards (Data Centre Solutions)
Deadline: April 2026
https://dcsawards.com/
Focused on data center innovation, the DCS Awards recognize excellence in hardware, cooling systems, and design efficiency. They attract major European players and global technology providers alike.
4. Computing Cloud Excellence Awards
Deadline: May 2026
https://www.computingawards.co.uk/
Hosted by Computing Magazine, this UK-based award program celebrates everything from hybrid cloud deployments to security and sustainability initiatives.
5. CRN Tech Innovator Awards
Deadline: September 2026
https://www.crn.com/
CRN’s awards focus on innovation across IT infrastructure and channel partnerships. Cloud companies that help businesses modernize their digital ecosystems often feature heavily here.
6. Gartner Eye on Innovation Awards (Infrastructure and Cloud)
Deadline: June 2026
https://www.gartner.com/en/conferences/
Gartner’s awards are prestigious and data-driven. They recognize organizations that leverage cloud infrastructure creatively to improve efficiency and security.
7. Global Cloud Computing Awards (Globee)
Deadline: Rolling
https://globeeawards.com/cloud-computing/
A global program spotlighting innovation in cloud delivery, integration, and automation. The Globees are known for broad participation and executive-level judging.
8. Cloud Security Awards
Deadline: March 2026
https://www.cloudsecurityawards.com/
A specialized program that honors the people and products securing today’s multi-cloud environments. Categories include zero trust, threat prevention, and encryption innovation.
9. Data Centre World Awards
Deadline: June 2026
https://www.datacentreworld.com/
These awards are connected to the major global Data Centre World events. They spotlight excellence in infrastructure design, sustainability, and emerging technologies like liquid cooling.
10. Storage Awards (The Storries)
Deadline: May 2026
https://www.storage-awards.com/
Now in their 20th year, the Storage Awards honor excellence in enterprise storage, cloud integration, and data management. They round out the full infrastructure picture.
Why Cloud and Data Center Awards Deserve the Spotlight
The cloud industry moves fast, but reputation still matters. Recognition from credible programs — especially business-driven ones like the Stratus Awards — signals trust and capability. These aren’t just tech contests; they’re business credentials.
Awards also help humanize the complex. They give a name and face to the people keeping data flowing securely and sustainably. And in 2026, with the growing focus on carbon efficiency and energy use in the cloud sector, sustainability is quickly becoming part of what defines excellence.
If you want a solid reference on this shift, check out IDC’s analysis of cloud innovation trends for 2026.