NIST Transfers Baldrige Program Operations to Private Partners

USA: NIST Transfers Baldrige Program Operations to Private Partners

A new public‑private partnership was announced on December 11, 2025, in Gaithersburg, Maryland, whereby the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) and the U.S. Department of Commerce finalized agreements with the Alliance for Performance Excellence and the Baldrige Foundation to move most operational responsibilities of the Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award program to the two private‑sector organizations. The move is intended to sustain the program’s success, broaden its resources, and align with the administration’s effort to reduce federal spending while preserving the award’s rigor.

Background of the Baldrige Program

Established in 1988, the Baldrige Performance Excellence Program has recognized U.S. organizations that demonstrate superior quality and performance across manufacturing, services, health care, education, government, and nonprofit sectors. By awarding the Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award and disseminating best‑practice frameworks, the program has aimed to improve competitiveness and quality of life nationwide.

Details of the Transfer

Under the agreements, the Alliance for Performance Excellence and the Baldrige Foundation will assume management of the award process, the Quest for Excellence conference, revisions to the Baldrige Excellence Framework, and the Executive Fellows Program. NIST and the Department of Commerce will retain ultimate responsibility for the Baldrige Excellence Framework, the award process, and statutory requirements codified in 15 U.S.C. §3711a.

Official Statements

Bob Fangmeyer, NIST Baldrige Performance Excellence Program Director, said, “The Baldrige Program has helped thousands of organizations improve their operations and outcomes, bringing better products and services to millions of Americans.” Alliance President and CEO Brian Lassiter added, “We are eager to expand our partnership with the Baldrige Program and collaborate with the Baldrige Foundation to improve and innovate these key offerings.” Baldrige Foundation President and CEO Josh Racette described the transition as “one of the most important milestones in Baldrige’s history,” emphasizing the goal of long‑term stability and expanded reach.

Anticipated Outcomes

Stakeholders anticipate that the partnership will enable faster scaling of program initiatives, increased access to resources, and a stronger platform for encouraging organizational resilience. Both private partners have pledged to preserve the program’s rigor, integrity, and value while extending its impact to a broader audience of U.S. organizations and communities.

Next Steps and Contact Information

NIST will complete the ongoing 2025 award cycle and expects to announce recipients in the coming weeks. Additional details on the transition are available on the NIST Baldrige Performance Excellence Program website, and inquiries can be directed to Baldrige at baldrige@nist.gov.

This report is based on information from NIST, licensed under Public Domain (U.S. Government Work). Source: Official U.S. Government release.