At the Austrian Marshall Plan Foundation, we have always believed that the strongest bridges between nations are built by people. Through academic exchange, research collaboration, innovation, and personal connections, generations of fellows and alumni have helped shape the close relationship between Austria and the United States.
Today, we are proud to announce the launch of the US-AT Bridge Award, a new joint initiative together with Fulbright Austria, designed to recognize outstanding alumni whose work has made a lasting contribution to the transatlantic partnership.
Celebrating our Impact
For decades, both organizations have invested in creating opportunities for talented students, researchers, and professionals to gain firsthand international experience. Yet the true impact of these exchanges often becomes visible long after a fellowship or scholarship has ended.
The US-AT Bridge Award celebrates alumni who have transformed their international experiences into meaningful action. Whether through innovation, academic leadership, entrepreneurship, public service, cultural exchange, or community engagement, award recipients exemplify how individual commitment can strengthen Austrian-American relations and create lasting benefits on both sides of the Atlantic.
Rather than focusing on a single project or achievement, the award recognizes individuals whose sustained contributions demonstrate the power of exchange, collaboration, and shared democratic values.
Two Directions, One Shared Mission
To reflect the reciprocal nature of transatlantic cooperation, the award will be presented in two categories:
Bridge Award AT→US, recognizing individuals whose impact has extended from Austria to the United States.
Bridge Award US→AT, recognizing individuals whose contributions have strengthened ties from the United States to Austria.
Together, these categories highlight the dynamic flow of ideas, talent, and innovation that continues to enrich both countries.
The award is open to all alumni of Fulbright Austria and the Austrian Marshall Plan Foundation. Eligible nominees are individuals who have participated in transatlantic exchange and used that experience to make a meaningful contribution to Austrian-American relations within their professions, institutions, or communities.
Nominations may be submitted either by the candidates themselves or by supporters who have witnessed their impact firsthand. Applications will be evaluated based on innovation, transatlantic relevance, and measurable impact.
We look forward to honoring the remarkable individuals whose dedication strengthens the transatlantic partnership every day and inspires future generations to continue building bridges between Austria and the United States.