Inman launches 2026 Best of Proptech Awards with 25 categories

TALLAHASSEE, Fla., Inman, a leading source of news for real estate professionals, has launched the nominations process for its 2026 Best of Proptech Awards. The expanded program merges Inman's Best of Proptech and Best of AI honors into a single, comprehensive recognition program with 25 categories. Nominations are open from August 31 to October 1, with the winners to be announced on October 27.

This year marks the first time Inman has combined its Best of Proptech and Best of AI honors into a single program, highlighting the significant role that technology and artificial intelligence play in the residential real estate industry. The program now includes seven new categories, expanding its coverage to include fintech, construction, transactions, AI, and company impact.

Tom Bohn, CEO of Inman, stated, "Technology and AI are transforming every aspect of real estate transactions. By bringing Best of Proptech and Best of AI together, we can better recognize the individuals and companies that are building the future of property technology. Our awards are designed to honor those making a meaningful impact on the industry."

The 2026 Best of Proptech Awards encompass a wide range of categories, from fintech and housing innovation to AI-specific recognition and people and company impact. The new categories include:

- Down Payment & Affordability Access Tools - Housing Affordability Innovation - Cybersecurity & Data Protection in Real Estate

The program also features AI recognition by use case, including:

- Agentic AI & Autonomous Workflows - AI-Powered Insights & Decision Tools - AI in Marketing & Content Creation

The awards aim to spotlight the founders, companies, and investors who are driving innovation in the real estate sector. Categories such as Proptech Founder/Visionary of the Year and AI Visionary of the Year recognize leaders in the field. Additionally, a new category, Best Proptech Startup of the Year, honors early-stage companies, separate from the founder award.

Bohn added, "The Best of Proptech Awards are a testament to the ongoing evolution of the real estate industry. Our goal is to celebrate the products and leaders that are making a significant difference, ensuring that the next generation of technology in real estate is both innovative and responsible."

Nominations can be submitted at https://evgmedia.com/inman-awards/.

Inman has a long-standing tradition of recognizing excellence in the real estate industry. Since 1998, the organization has honored companies and individuals for their commitment to excellence and service. The Best of Proptech Awards join other Inman honors, including the Inman Innovator Awards, the Golden I Club, and the Power Player Awards.