The deadline has passed, the entries are in – and the buzz is building. The International Optical Technologies Association (IOTA) has officially closed submissions (as of 8 August) for its first-ever Excellence in Optical Technologies Awards, amid a strong response, and is now preparing for the award ceremony.
More than 70 entries were received from around the world, showcasing an impressive breadth of innovation, creativity, and commercial impact in the optical security field. For those who missed the cut-off, the moment has passed – and judging by the calibre of submissions, it’s a moment you’ll wish you had been part of.
Organised by IOTA – the new global trade body formerly known as the International Hologram Manufacturers Association – the awards have quickly cemented themselves as a significant fixture on the industry calendar. They recognise technical excellence and creative application across the full spectrum of optical technologies, from holography and micro-optics to plasmonics, polarisation effects, photonic structures, and beyond.
Entries have been received from established global leaders, emerging innovators, and creative partnerships that are pushing the boundaries of what optical security can achieve. Whether protecting brands, securing identities, or combating counterfeiting, these technologies are redefining how value, trust, and authenticity are safeguarded in an increasingly digital world.
Dr Mark Deakes, Chair IOTA said: ‘the scale and quality of entries had exceeded expectations: these inaugural awards are a landmark moment for our industry.
They reflect the technical brilliance and design talent in our sector, as well as the innovation and commercial strength that keep optical technologies at the forefront of security. The fact that we’ve had such an overwhelming response for the first year is a sign of the energy and diversity driving our field forward’.
All entries are now being evaluated by the IOTA Board, all of whom possess extensive experience in authentication, design, and optical security. Their task: to recognise the most outstanding achievements that have set new standards for the sector.
The winners will be revealed at the Optical & Digital Document Security™ (ODDS) conference, taking place 15-17 September in Warsaw, Poland (see page 8). ODDS is widely regarded as the leading technical event for physical, digital, and virtual document security, drawing delegates from suppliers, manufacturers, and endusers worldwide.
For those eager to see what they missed – and who takes home the trophies – Holography & Optical Technology News® will feature full coverage of all the winners & others, including project highlights and exclusive interviews, in its next editions.
