2026 Malchow Award

In honor of Hal Malchow — one of Analyst Institute’s co-founders and a pioneer in testing what doesn’t work to uncover what does — we’re proud to accept submissions for the second annual Malchow Award.

This award recognizes an organization that has contributed to community learning by conducting and sharing research findings about tactics that didn’t work as anticipated (including negative and null results, and findings that challenge conventional wisdom) — helping us all avoid ineffective approaches, sharpen future strategies, and move forward more impactfully.

Hal instilled this spirit of candor and curiosity into the DNA of Analyst Institute, beginning with his early experiments on direct mail and extending through many of the enduring best practices in social pressure messaging. This award honors his legacy by recognizing partners who share that same commitment to transparency, innovation, and collective progress.

Submissions are open now through 11 pm ET on Wednesday, June 10. The winner will be recognized and receive an award at the Analyst Group Retreat, taking place July 22–24 in Washington, DC, and virtually. Learn more and register for the AG Retreat here.

We invite you to explore the work of Vote Forward, the inaugural recipient of the Malchow Award!

For questions or help with the submission process, email AGRetreat@analystinstitute.org