HIGH POINT – For its third annual home furnishings industry awards, the High Point Market Authority‘s Diversity Advocacy Alliance (DAA) committee opens its 2026 nomination form, taking nominations through July 8.
The three award categories are Open Arms, Mentorship and Social Responsibility.
High Point Market exhibitors eligible for the Open Arms Award are selected based on how well they receive showroom visitors irrespective of their race, gender or orientation. The nominees in this category also reflect diversity within the company’s employment practices and marketing.
See also: HPMA set new Diversity Advocacy Alliance committee for 2026
Individuals eligible for the Mentorship Award actively foster growth among established and emerging colleagues, providing guidance, support and mentorship to industry professionals from underrepresented backgrounds.
Individuals or companies eligible to receive the Social Responsibility Award are known to act for positive societal change and champion inclusivity beyond High Point Market trade events, through their recognition of diversity’s significance in driving innovation, creativity and unique perspectives across all business interactions.
“The Diversity Advocacy Alliance Awards exist to shine a light on the individuals and organizations who are doing the real work of building a more inclusive home furnishings industry,” said Ben Johnston, DAA chair and founder and principal of Houston-based interior design firm Benjamin Johnston Design, adding, “We encourage our entire community to take a moment to recognize those who exemplify a true commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion.”
Additional details regarding the awards criteria are located on the Diversity Advocacy Alliance page of the High Point Market website. The award recipients will be honored at an event during High Point Market in October.
