The National Medal of Technology and Innovation is an honor bestowed by the President of the United States to American inventors and innovators who have made significant contributions to the nation's economic, environmental, or social well-being through the development and commercialization of technological advances. Established by the Congress in 1980, it is the nation's highest honor for technological achievement, recognizing those whose innovations have created new industries, revitalized older industries, or contributed significantly to America's competitiveness.
To be eligible for the National Medal of Technology and Innovation, nominees must meet the following criteria:
Nominations for the medal can be made by any individual or organization, with the process managed by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). The nominees are reviewed by a distinguished committee, which makes recommendations to the Secretary of Commerce. The President then selects the recipients from those recommended.
The award ceremony traditionally takes place at the White House, where the President presents the medal. The medal features an engraving of the recipient's name and a citation describing their contributions.