Vilcek Prizes

The Vilcek Prizes are awarded annually to immigrants who have made lasting contributions to American society.

  • Awarded in two categories: biomedical science and a rotating category in the arts and humanities
  • Unrestricted cash award of $100,000

In 2024, the Vilcek Prizes are awarded in biomedical science and design. Previous categories include dance, filmmaking, literature, culinary arts, architecture, design, visual arts, and theatre. Vilcek Prizewinners receive a $100,000 cash award and a trophy, uniquely designed for each winner by Stefan Sagmeister. The foundation presents the Vilcek Prizes in an awards ceremony each spring in New York City.

Selection Process

The foundation appoints nominators, experts in their fields, and asks them to submit the names of potential award winners to two juries: one composed of medical researchers, and the other, experts in the cultural discipline under consideration for the current year. Each jury selects one award winner and submits its recommendation to the Vilcek Foundation’s Board of Directors for final approval.

The Vilcek Foundation regrets that, due to staffing limitations, it cannot respond to unsolicited nominations.