CSA Entrepreneur Recognition Award

About this program

The Costume Society of America offers the biannual Entrepreneur Recognition Award to honor innovative entrepreneurs whose businesses advance the fields of clothing, costume, and dress. The award includes an invitation to present at the 2028 National Symposium, a certificate, $525 honorarium, $500 travel stipend, presentation-day registration, and a one-year CSA Business Associate membership. Applicants or nominees must have operated a successful venture for at least one year and demonstrate creative or innovative practices, effective business operations, alignment with CSA’s mission, and potential to contribute to the visibility of dress scholarship or practice. Nominations, submitted as one PDF by November 1, 2027, must include business information, supporting materials, a resume, entrepreneurial and CSA value statements, and a proposed presentation topic; CSA membership is not required.