Ready to take the next step on your journey to performance excellence? This page includes everything you need to apply—step-by-step instructions, deadlines, forms, and guidance based on your award level.
Intent to Apply
Let us know you’re planning to apply...click icon to learn more.
Application
Submit your written response and application...click icon to see how.
Review
Examiners evaluate your application and prepare feedback...click icon to see what to expect.
Site Visit
Our team visits to explore your operations in person...click icon to view details.
Judging & Feedback
Judges finalize your recognition and you receive insights...click icon to read about the process.
Assessment Cycle
Here’s exactly what’s required at each award level. No surprises, no guesswork.
All Applicants Must Submit:
- Intent to Apply Form (by May 31)
- Application Form (by July 31)
- Organizational Profile (max 5 pages, submitted with app)
- Criteria Response (page limit depends on award level)
- CEO Signature
- One PDF file (not a scan) including the Organizational Profile, Criteria Response, and any other attachments
Additional Information by Award Level:
Commitment (Level 2)
- 15-page Criteria Response
- Covers Basic-level questions
- 1-day site visit
Achievement (Level 3)
- 35-page Criteria Response
- Covers Overall-level questions
- 2-day site visit
Excellence (Level 4)
- 50-page Criteria Response
- Covers Multiple-level questions
- 3-day site visit
Note: Glossary, title page, and organizational chart are strongly recommended and not counted in page limits.
2026 Assessment Calendar for Level 1
Applications Are Open All Year Long
2026 Assessment Calendar for Levels 2, 3, & 4
April + May
Intent to Apply Submission – April 3 to May 31
July
Application Due July 31
Applicants submit a written response to the Baldrige Criteria based on their chosen award level. For guidance on page limits, formatting, and what to include, check out our TNCPE Criteria Guidelines for Applicants.
We’ll begin accepting applications and Criteria responses on June 2.
When you’re ready to apply, we’re ready to support you—every step of the way.
September + October
Host Examiner Site Visit September 14 – October 9
Your examiner team will come onsite to better understand your organization and explore the insights shared in your Criteria response. Site visit length depends on your award level, and all visits must be completed by October 10. Specific visit dates will be coordinated between you and your examiner team’s availability.
Need guidance? Reach out to us—we’re here to help.
What You’ll Pay
Application fees depend on your award level and the size of your organization. You can pay the full fee when you submit your Intent to Apply—or just pay the first $1,000 now and the rest when your application is due.
Quick Snapshot (by Award Level):
Commitment Award
(Level 2)
From $5,000 – $15,000 (based on org size and membership status)
Achievement Award
(Level 3)
From $8,000 – $18,000 (based on org size and membership status)
Excellence Award
(Level 4)
From $10,000 – $20,000 (based on org size and membership status)
Still Have Questions?
We know this process can feel like a big lift—but you don’t have to carry it alone.
Whether you need help navigating requirements, clarifying submission steps, or just want to talk it through, we’re here to support you.
Just give us a shout out!
Need Coaching or a Consult?
If you’re not sure how to get started or want personalized guidance, we offer application coaching and examiner support.
Reach out and we’ll get you connected.
Application Writing
No matter where your organization is on its journey to performance excellence, this hands-on workshop will propel you forward. In this full-day course, you will come away with a deeper understanding of your organization and the Baldrige framework, as well as a project plan for writing and editing your application. You will even complete some application questions during interactive exercises throughout the day. Whether this is your first or fifth TNCPE application, this workshop will get you moving along the path to success!
Location | Virtual or On-site
Limit | 25 participants
Baldrige for Beginners
The Baldrige for Beginners workshop is a one-day introduction to the seven categories of the Baldrige Excellence Framework™. The workshop includes class discussions and activities designed to help participants use the basic level questions in each category to assess their own organization or area. Each participant will receive a copy of the Baldrige Excellence Framework™.
Location | Virtual or On-site
Limit | 30 participants
Strategy Concepts that Move You Forward
The best strategic planning processes begin with an understanding of your strategic advantages and challenges. In this 4-hour course, a TNCPE facilitator will guide you through a SWOT analysis and help your organization identify its most significant strategic opportunities. Use this workshop to kick off your strategic planning cycle or to fill in the gaps in your Organizational Profile!
Location | Virtual or On-site
Limit | 25 participants
Leading for Excellence
A must-have for managers that covers designing and implementing processes with excellence in mind! Take a deep-dive into the intricacies of work systems, leadership systems, and measurement systems to elevate your understanding and implementation of proven strategies. Join us on a transformative journey towards operational excellence and sustainable success.
