2026 East Bay Innovation Awards

The 13th annual East Bay Innovation Awards returns to downtown Oakland at the Henry J. Kaiser Center for the Arts on the evening of Thursday, March 26, 2026. Join us for a fun-filled evening presented by PG&E, where the awardees will be revealed. Networking begins at 5:00 pm. Tickets include food and beverage.

Use promo code Early2026 to get $50 off tickets through January 31, 2026.

About the East Bay Innovation Awards

The East Bay is a world-class leader when it comes to innovation and entrepreneurship. Often referred to as the “Academy Awards of the East Bay,” the East Bay Innovation Awards is the premier program that celebrates and honors the extraordinary companies and organizations that contribute to the East Bay’s legacy of innovation. For over a decade, the annual awards ceremony has showcased outstanding organizations that embrace innovation in their manufacturing, products, services, design, and information.

Program & Hosts

We are thrilled to welcome back Emmy Award-winning journalist, NBC Bay Area news anchor and reporter, Gia Vang, as event host for the 2026 award ceremony. As Co-Founder of the Very Asian Foundation, Gia has led efforts to combat racism and create change for AANHPI communities.

Joy Ofodu will be joining us again for the 2026 East Bay Innovation Awards as a Host and Announcer. The multi-talented Voice Actor and CEO of Enjoyment Endeavor has drawn millions of views to her original digital comedy content. She recently wrote, directed, and starred in an original film called Heart of Sunshine.

Legacy Awardee

East Bay EDA is pleased to announce the selection of the San Francisco Bay Area Rapid Transit District (BART) as the Legacy Awardee for the 2026 East Bay Innovation Awards.

Since its first trains rolled out in 1972, BART has been far more than a commuter rail system. For the East Bay—an area defined by its vibrant cities, economic dynamism, and diverse communities—BART has functioned as an engine of innovation, shaping not only how people travel but also how the region grows, works, and imagines its future. Today, more than fifty years later, BART’s legacy continues to influence infrastructure planning, environmental policy, and urban development across the East Bay in profound and enduring ways. Read the press release.

Venue Information

The Henry J. Kaiser Center for the Arts is a world-class event center at the former Oakland Municipal Auditorium. Within its walls are 5 spectacular venues: a 25,000-square-foot arena, a 1,500-seat proscenium theatre, a speakeasy-style lounge, and 2 hotel-style ballrooms.

Conveniently located on the edge of Lake Merritt near Oakland’s Downtown and Chinatown districts, this historic building hosted countless performances, concerts, and recitals in its original 90-year run. Upon reopening in spring 2024, The Henry J. Kaiser Center will once again showcase the East Bay’s arts and culture.

2025 Sponsorship

Sponsorship opportunities are available for the 2026 event. Download our sponsorship sheet and contact us at [email protected] to learn how you can sponsor East Bay innovation!

Presenting Sponsor

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Host or Publisher East Bay Economic Development Alliance