Wisconsin Forward Award
Wisconsin Forward Award Program
The Wisconsin Forward Award (WFA) program, established in 1997, promotes continuous improvement and performance excellence. It provides organizations with a structured path to enhance business practices, ensuring their long-term success and contributing to Wisconsin's economic vitality.
Organizations participating in WFA commit to high standards of excellence. Whether they are just beginning their journey or have established mature quality management systems aligned with the Baldrige Criteria, they set themselves apart as leaders in their industries.
Assessment and Award Requirements
Review the award levels outlined below and select the option that best aligns with your organization's readiness and goals. Submitting an Intent to Apply is a simple first step that signals your interest, helps you plan effectively, and opens the door to guidance and support throughout the process.
Level 1
- Criteria Response
- Organizational Profile (2 general topics, approximately 35 questions plus supplemental results)
- Application Length
- 7–10 pages
- Site Visit
- No site visit — Improvement Planning session included
- Feedback
- Summary of findings ("Highlights and Considerations") — No scoring
- Recognition Eligibility
- Commitment
- Investment
- $750 for members, $1,400 for nonmembers
- Application Deadlines
- No deadline — applications can be submitted at any time!
- Application Forms
- Download the Level 1 forms and application
Level 2
- Criteria Response
- Organizational Profile plus Basic and Overall Level questions (19 general Item topics, approximately 90 questions); download the Excellence Builder and answer all questions in the Profile plus bold questions in each Category
- Application Length
- 25 pages plus OP
- Site Visit
- 1-day site visit
- Feedback
- Strengths and OFIs at Overall Level — Rating/Scoring
- Recognition Eligibility
- Distinction, Achievement, or Commitment
- Investment
- 0–249 employees: $2,500 / $5,000 | 249–499 employees: $3,500 / $6,000 | Over 500 employees: $5,000 / $8,000
- Application Deadlines
- Intent to Apply opens April 1, 2026 | Intent to Apply deadline: May 15, 2026 | Application deadline: July 31, 2026
- Application Forms
- Level 2 Intent to Apply Form
Level 3
- Criteria Response
- Organizational Profile plus Basic, Overall and Multiple Level questions (19 general topics, approximately 270 questions); download a copy of the Business/Nonprofit, Healthcare, or Education Baldrige Criteria and answer all questions. Applicants interested in using the 2026 Baldrige Award Criteria should contact WCPE.
- Application Length
- 50 pages plus OP
- Site Visit
- 2–3-day site visit
- Feedback
- Strengths and OFIs at Multiple Level — Rating/Scoring
- Recognition Eligibility
- Excellence, Distinction, Achievement, or Commitment
- Investment
- 0–249 employees: $4,500 / $9,000 | 249–499 employees: $7,500 / $15,000 | Over 500 employees: $9,500 / $18,000 plus site visit expenses
- Application Deadlines
- Intent to Apply opens April 1, 2026 | Intent to Apply deadline: May 15, 2026 | Application deadline: July 31, 2026
- Application Forms
- Level 3 Intent to Apply Form
Recognition Levels
Please contact WCPE for invoicing, ACH payments, or other payment options.
Commitment
Given to organizations who are making a commitment to organizational alignment and improvement.
Achievement
Awarded to organizations demonstrating progress in implementing quality and performance management systems. Evaluations include a virtual site visit and interactive feedback session.
Distinction
Given to organizations with well-established performance management systems and measurable improvements in process effectiveness. Evaluations include a virtual site visit and interactive feedback session.
Excellence
The highest honor, awarded to organizations demonstrating superior management excellence and business results. Includes virtual and on-location site visits to verify and clarify application details. Organizations achieving this level may apply for the national Baldrige Performance Excellence Program.
Why Participate?
- Assess and strengthen their quality and performance systems.
- Receive expert feedback to guide their improvement efforts.
- Gain statewide recognition for their commitment to excellence.
- Position themselves as role models in Wisconsin's business community.
Ready to get started?
Contact WCPE to learn more about assessment options, preparation, and the value of feedback for your organization.
Contact WisQuality