The Industry Leadership Award honors entrepreneurs, artisans and businesses who have made significant or visionary contributions to the advancement of the classical guitar and its community.

Past Honorees Include:

• Mel Bay (1996)
• Paul Gerrits (2008)
• Jim D'Addario (2009)
• John D'Addario, Jr. (2009)
• Thomas Humphrey (2009)
• Bernard Maillot (2010)
• John Gilbert (2010)
• Manuel Velázquez (2011)
• Matanya Ophee (2011)
  
• Daniel Friederich (2012)
  
• Maurice J. Summerfield (2013)