ISBER New Innovation Product Award

To submit your application, please read the instructions and then complete the form below.

Each year, ISBER recognizes excellence and innovation in biobanking through the New Innovation Product Award (formerly the Outstanding New Product Award). This award celebrates a newly introduced product that demonstrates innovation, impact, and value for the biobanking community.

A panel of expert judges representing diverse sectors of the field will review all eligible submissions. Finalists will be selected and invited to deliver a virtual product presentation in advance of the Congress. The winning product will be announced during the Award Ceremony at the ISBER 2026 Global Biobanking Congress, held April 21–23, 2026, in Shenzhen, China.

Evaluation Criteria

Submitted products will be assessed based on the following:

  1. Innovation
    • Uniqueness of the product compared to existing solutions
    • Novelty of the technology or approach
    • Level of advancement in repository science or operations
  1. Impact on Biorepository Science & Operations
    • How significantly the product enhances sample preservation, processing, tracking, or distribution
    • Contribution to data integrity, compliance, or standardization
    • Potential to improve efficiency, reduce costs, or enhance quality
      Fills an unmet need
  1. Usability & Practicality
    • Ease of implementation and integration into existing biorepository workflows
    • User-friendliness, training requirements, and adaptability
    • Scalability for various repository sizes and needs
  1. Sustainability & Compliance
    • Environmental sustainability and energy efficiency
    • Compliance with regulatory standards (e.g., ISBER Best Practices, FDA, ISO)
    • Ethical considerations and responsible sourcing
  1. Market Potential & Adoption 
    • Current adoption and interest from the biorepository community
    • Commercial availability and pricing feasibility
    • Testimonials, case studies, or documented success stories

Eligibility — Definition of a “New” Product

To qualify, products must meet both of the following criteria:

  • The product must have been introduced after the 2025 ISBER Annual Meeting (May 16, 2025). Products submitted for the 2025 Annual Meeting are not eligible.

  • The product must be commercially available by the ISBER 2026 Global Biobanking Congress, including a part number, pricing, and a reasonable lead time.

Important Eligibility Requirement

Applicants must be confirmed exhibitors at the ISBER 2026 Global Biobanking Congress.

Timeline

Application deadline — March 12 | Finalist presentations — Week of March 23 | Results announced — Early/Mid April

Award Recognition

The award recipient will receive:

  • Recognition during the Award Ceremony at the Congress

  • Award signage displayed at the exhibitor’s booth, produced by ISBER

  • Dedicated recognition via ISBER’s social media channels following the meeting