Dominican National Quality Award Opens Applications for 2026 Edition

The National Association of Enterprises and Industries of Herrera (ANEIH) has officially opened applications for the eighth edition of the Dominican Republic National Quality Award for the Private Sector (PNCRD), an initiative designed to recognize companies that demonstrate outstanding management practices, operational excellence, competitiveness, and sustainable development.

Organizations engaged in the production of goods or services in the Dominican Republic, whether locally or foreign-owned, are eligible to apply, provided they meet the program’s evaluation requirements. Applications will remain open until September 18, 2026.

Promoting Business Excellence

Considered the country’s highest distinction for quality management in the private sector, the award aims to encourage continuous improvement, strengthen a culture of quality, and promote management systems aligned with internationally recognized standards.

During the launch event in Santo Domingo, Ángelo Viro, president of ANEIH, said businesses now operate in an increasingly demanding environment shaped by evolving consumer expectations, rapid technological change, and global competition.

“Quality is no longer a competitive advantage—it has become an essential requirement to compete,” Viro said. He noted that the program seeks not only to recognize high-performing companies but also to encourage organizations to adopt more efficient, innovative, and sustainable management practices.

He also encouraged companies that have not previously participated to take part, highlighting that one of the initiative’s greatest benefits is the independent evaluation process, which helps organizations identify strengths and opportunities for improvement.

Government Support Through the MICM

The presentation also featured Gianna Franjul, Vice Minister of Industrial Development at the Ministry of Industry, Commerce and MSMEs (MICM), who encouraged Dominican businesses to view the competition as an opportunity to strengthen their management capabilities and prepare for a more competitive economic environment.

Franjul noted that the ministry has continuously supported the initiative since 2022, describing it as an important tool for fostering a culture of quality across the country’s productive sectors. She also emphasized efforts to expand participation among micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), describing quality management as a key driver of growth, innovation, and long-term competitiveness.

Evaluation Process and Benefits for Participants

The National Quality Award includes separate categories for micro, small, medium-sized, and large companies in both the industrial and services sectors, ensuring that organizations are assessed according to their size and level of organizational development.

As part of the selection process, participating companies must complete a self-assessment based on the Management Excellence Model. An independent team of evaluators will then conduct on-site reviews to verify the submitted evidence before preparing reports that will serve as the basis for the jury’s final decision.

Beyond public recognition, participating organizations will receive detailed feedback identifying strengths and areas for improvement. Award winners will also be authorized to use the program’s official quality seal in their institutional communications, gain access to specialized training programs, and, in the case of the Grand Prize recipient, represent the Dominican Republic at the Ibero-American Quality Award.

By opening the 2026 call for applications, ANEIH aims to broaden participation across the private sector while reinforcing a culture of excellence that enhances the competitiveness of Dominican companies in both domestic and international markets.