The Deepak Raj Rising Star Award recognizes young Indian American leaders who are creating meaningful social impact through philanthropy, civic engagement, and community-building.
The Indian Philanthropy Alliance (IPA) has opened nominations for the Deepak Raj Rising Star Award, an annual recognition that honors emerging Indian American leaders who have demonstrated significant contributions to philanthropy, civic engagement, and social impact.
Named after Deepak Raj, a prominent investor, institution-builder, and philanthropist, the award seeks to recognize young professionals who are creating meaningful change while embodying the values of leadership, collaboration, and community-building. Raj is known for his involvement in strengthening India-U.S. ties through organizations such as the India Philanthropy Alliance, Pratham USA, Indian American IMPACT, and the Raj Center on Indian Economic Policies at Columbia University.
According to IPA, the award celebrates individuals who go beyond participation in service initiatives and actively build institutions, mobilize communities, and inspire others to engage in philanthropy and civic life. The organization noted that Raj’s legacy is rooted not in a single philanthropic contribution but in his long-term commitment to creating and strengthening organizations that generate lasting impact.
The award is open to “next generation” leaders under the age of 40 who are of Indian origin or maintain strong ties to India and are U.S. citizens or permanent residents. Nominees will be evaluated on several criteria, including demonstrated social impact, leadership and innovation, collaborative efforts, commitment to learning, and the ability to inspire other young Indian Americans to participate in service and community engagement.
IPA also emphasized that the award recognizes leadership, initiative, and measurable impact rather than the size of an individual’s financial contributions. Candidates from all levels of professional and financial backgrounds are encouraged to apply or be nominated.
The selection process places particular focus on individuals who have addressed social, civic, environmental, educational, health, or development challenges affecting communities in India, the United States, or the broader Indian diaspora. Nominees are also expected to reflect the organization’s principles of effective philanthropy, including support for long-term institutional growth, outcome-oriented giving, collaborative approaches, and directing resources toward areas of greatest need.
Nominations officially opened on April 20 and will remain open until June 30. Finalists and the winner are expected to be selected and notified by July 31. The recipient will be honored at IPA’s annual Philanthropy Summit, scheduled to take place in Dallas on September 29.
As part of the recognition, the winner will direct a $10,000 grant to a nonprofit organization of their choice, subject to approval by IPA. Eligible organizations must align with IPA’s focus areas, including education, health, livelihoods, environmental protection, civic engagement, and development priorities affecting India or Indian American communities.
Additional recognition includes a profile on the IPA website and blog, dedicated social media promotion, an opportunity to speak at the annual Philanthropy Summit, participation in IPA’s NextGen Task Force, and introductions to the organization’s network of philanthropists, community leaders, and mentors.
IPA has stated that self-nominations are welcome. Interested individuals and nominators are required to submit information about the nominee, a brief biography, a detailed description of their impact and leadership experience, and optional supporting links showcasing projects, organizations, or initiatives they have led.
Nominations can be submitted through the Deepak Raj Rising Star Award Nomination Form, available at:https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdyBOnsWZKaX5Sx85PBNS_lMqTozrIelxZkyytgYa2ESpXzAQ/viewform.
Questions regarding the award process may be directed to [email protected]
The award reflects a growing effort within the Indian American philanthropic community to recognize and encourage young leaders who are driving positive social change while building institutions and networks that can sustain impact for future generations.
