Applications for the 2027 Visionary City Award are now being accepted.
Please review the criteria, process, and examples outlined below before applying.
The application is provided at the bottom of this page.
All materials must be submitted by Friday, October 2, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. (EST).
GMA partners with Georgia Trend magazine to present the annual Visionary City Award to nine cities in three population categories:
- under 5,000
- 5,000–24,999, and
- 25,000 and above.
The award recognizes cities that drive positive community change through effective civic engagement and collaboration.
Nominations should highlight initiatives that foster strong working relationships and help make communities places where people truly love to live and work.
Winners will be informed in late October.
The online application, to include impact statements, photographs, graphics or other printed visual items, and links to any videos, is due by Friday, October 2, 2026, 5:00 p.m. (EST).