TEA Recognition of Merit
Celebrating an Expanded Slate of Projects and Creators
Recognizing outstanding achievements in compelling places and experiences.
The TEA Recognition of Merit spotlights achievements that exemplify superior artistry and execution in the creation of compelling places and experiences.
This recognition allows the Thea Awards Judging Committee, TEA membership, and the public to celebrate a greater number of outstanding projects and the creative, artistic, architectural, engineering, technical, production, and business minds behind them.
About the Recognition of Merit
Expanded Recognition
Celebrates exceptional projects that deserve industry attention and public recognition.
Same Sub-Category Rules
Recognition of Merit recipients are subject to the same sub-category rules as other Thea Award tiers.
Credits Required
A credits list is required so contributors can be acknowledged for their role in the project’s success.
While there is no minimum or maximum number of Recognitions of Merit awarded in a given year, TEA anticipates this tier will increase the number of individuals and companies annually credited by as much as 30%.
2026 TEA Recognition of Merit Recipients
2025 TEA Recognition of Merit Recipients
TEA Recognition of Merit FAQ
Why were the Recognition of Merit Awards created?
The Recognition of Merit Awards were introduced to recognize outstanding projects that did not meet the criteria for a Thea Award of Outstanding Achievement, but still demonstrate exceptional execution.
Is a Recognition of Merit an honorable mention?
Yes, in a sense. The Recognition of Merit was created to allow exceptional projects and their creators to be recognized and celebrated within the TEA community and broader industry.
Why did my project receive a Recognition of Merit instead of an Award for Outstanding Achievement?
Your project was selected because it was considered one of the best projects in the industry. While it demonstrated overall excellence, certain areas may not have fully met the specific execution standards required for an Award for Outstanding Achievement.
Is the Recognition of Merit awarded to the entire project or just part of it?
The Recognition of Merit recognizes the entire project team. A credits list is required for acceptance to ensure all contributors are acknowledged.
Who determines which projects receive a Recognition of Merit?
Selections are made by the Thea Awards Judging Committee in collaboration with the TEA International Board.
How many Recognition of Merit awards will be given each year?
There is no set number. Recognitions are based on the quality of achievements, not a fixed quota.
When and where will Recognition of Merit be presented?
Recognition of Merit Awards are presented as part of the Thea Awards celebration and related TEA INSPIRE Week programming.
Do Recognition of Merit recipients receive the same benefits as Thea Award recipients?
Recognition of Merit recipients receive event access benefits, including VIP reception invitations, speaking opportunities at INSPIRE, special program advertising rates, and more.
Are Recognition of Merits awarded to the project, the operator, or the creators?
Recognition of Merits are awarded for the achievement itself. The award is accepted by the project owner on behalf of everyone who contributed to the project’s success.
Do I have to accept a Recognition of Merit?
The project owner may accept or decline the Recognition of Merit. If declined, the project may be considered in a future judging cycle if it meets eligibility criteria.
Is there special programming for Recognition of Merit recipients?
Recognition of Merit recipients share their case studies during Spotlight Sessions, a pre-conference event to the INSPIRE Conference.