World Leisure Organization (WLO) has opened the entry process for its International Innovation Prize.

Now in its ninth year, the award celebrates organisations that have implemented creative solutions which foster local, national or international leisure opportunities for the benefit and development of individuals and communities.

Entries are accepted from all areas of leisure, including (but not limited to) health and fitness, sport, attractions, arts and culture, wellbeing and outdoor leisure and should demonstrate the originality, creativity, and innovation related to:

- the process (vision, management and communications)
- resources (financial viability and human, such as volunteers)
- partnerships and community involvement
- outputs (programme, events and amenities)
- outcomes

WLO says an entry can be "a new idea or it may mean finding creative solutions through leisure to existing problems and issues".

For a list of previous winners and more information on the award, click here.

The 2021 World Leisure International Innovation Prize winner will be promoted via the different WLO international communication and publication channels, including across the WLO Affiliate Members network (including UNWTO, ANZALS, ALS and ISTO).

The winner will also have the opportunity to present the project at the 5th World Leisure Expo & Forum in the city of Hangzhou, China, in October 2021.

Previous editions of the World Leisure Expo & Forum, in 2011, 2017 and 2019, gathered over 15 million visitors from China, Asia and the world.

To access the application document for the WLO Innovation Prize, click here.

HCM, Spa Business, Attractions Management, Leisure Opportunities and their parent company, Leisure Media, have been media partner of World Leisure since 1985 and support the organisation’s position that leisure is a fundamental human right.

About The World Leisure Organization

Formed in 1952, the World Leisure Organization is a non-profit, non-governmental body of individuals and organisations from throughout the world. The World Leisure Organization’s most prized partnership is its recognition as a consultive organisation with the Economic and Social Council of the United Nations.

This recognition provides WLO with a platform to support the work of the United Nations by reflecting its goals in the organisation’s programmes and services.

The World Leisure Organization is committed to the belief that well-selected leisure experiences improve quality of life for all – from childhood to later life. WLO draws its members from all parts of the world and from diverse areas of interest including travel and tourism, parks and recreation services, the arts and culture, sport, health and fitness, theme and entertainment centres and educational institutions.