Organized by the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Food of Slovenia, the International Institute of Gastronomy, Culture, Arts and Tourism (IGCAT) proudly supports and promotes the Golden Bee Award 2026, the highest national accolade recognizing outstanding achievements in the protection of bees and other pollinators. This award celebrates innovation, research, and initiatives that safeguard pollinators, essential players in food security, sustainable agriculture, biodiversity, and cultural heritage.
This year, the award focuses on research projects on bees and other pollinators conducted between 2018 and 2025. It seeks to highlight individuals and organizations that have advanced scientific knowledge, contributed to conservation efforts, and raised global awareness about the vital role of pollinators in our ecosystems.
Nominees are invited to submit their projects through an open call, which is open until 20 March 2026. The winner will be announced during the World Bee Day event on 20 May 2026, where the President of the Republic of Slovenia will personally present the award statuette. The recipient will receive a cash prize of €28,000, a Golden Bee sculpture designed by Urh Wiegele, and an official certificate.
We’re honored to partner with the Golden Bee Award, as its mission aligns closely with IGCAT’s focus areas: Feeding the Planet, Innovation, Creativity and Job Opportunities, Educating for Our Future, Balanced and Sustainable Tourism, Linking Urban and Rural, and Well-being and Healthier Living. By supporting initiatives like this, IGCAT highlights how research, creativity, and cross-sector collaboration can protect pollinators while strengthening sustainable food systems, cultural heritage, and healthier communities.
For more details and to submit your project, please consult the official open call here.
4 March 2026
