We are excited to announce the launch of the Benchmark Innovation Awards 2025, a prestigious event dedicated to recognising and celebrating groundbreaking advancements in the security industry. These awards honour companies and individuals who have demonstrated exceptional innovation and have made significant contributions to the evolution of security technologies and practices.
This year we have nine categories, including the new category ‘Innovator (Distributor) Company of the Year.’ This new category is being introduced to acknowledge the vital role of distributors in the security industry. This award celebrates a distribution company that has exhibited exceptional innovation, leadership, and commitment to advancing security solutions over the past year.
Video Management Software Innovation Award
The Video Management Software (VMS) Innovation Award recognises platforms that push the boundaries of efficiency, intelligence, and usability in modern security operations. As surveillance networks become increasingly complex, a VMS must go beyond simple video management, integrating AI-driven analytics, automation, and seamless interoperability with other security systems.
Last year, Cathexis Technologies claimed the award with CathexisVision 2024, a powerful VMS that set new standards in performance and situational awareness. With AI-powered object tracking, real-time activity trails, and a streamlined architecture leveraging Qt6 and Visual Studio 2022, CathexisVision 2024 delivered a robust, future-ready platform. The software’s ability to provide rapid forensic search, integration with a wide range of third-party systems, and enhanced operator control made it a standout in the category.
We look forward to seeing how VMS solutions continue to evolve.
Will this year’s nominees push AI capabilities even further?
Can they enhance scalability, cyber resilience, or cross-platform interoperability?
Surveillance CCTV Innovation Award
The Surveillance CCTV Innovation Award recognises advancements in camera technology that enhance image quality, operational efficiency, and situational awareness. In an industry where clarity and reliability are paramount, this category highlights solutions that redefine how surveillance is conducted.
The i-PRO X-Series, which won last year, marked a significant leap forward in AI-powered video surveillance. As the first i-PRO camera line with on-site learning capabilities, it allowed users to train cameras on specific objects, expanding AI-driven insights beyond predefined models. The X-Series also provided a cost-effective way to extend AI functionality to non-AI cameras, enabling a seamless transition to smarter surveillance systems. With its strong focus on cybersecurity, it reinforced the importance of responsible AI use in security.
Will we see new breakthroughs in edge processing, cloud integration, or ultra-low-light performance?
Visitor Management Innovator Award
The Visitor Management Innovator Award celebrates solutions that redefine how organisations control and monitor access. With an increasing emphasis on frictionless security, visitor management systems must balance convenience with robust identity verification.
Last year’s winner, IDIS, stood out with the DC-I6212WRX—an advanced video intercom designed for durability, security, and seamless integration. As the first NEMA 4X, IK10, and IP66-rated intercom offered by a video surveillance vendor, it provided unmatched resilience against harsh conditions. The device replaced traditional reception setups with secure, high-quality face-to-face interaction, offering businesses a scalable and reliable solution.
Will the next wave of visitor management solutions incorporate deeper AI-driven verification?
How will they further integrate mobile credentials and biometric security?
Alarm/Detection Innovation Award
The Alarm/Detection Innovation Award recognises technologies that enhance threat detection while reducing false alarms. In an era of evolving security challenges, these solutions must be precise, adaptive, and easy to deploy.
In 2024, Webeye’s Vigileyez secured the top spot with its battery-powered RF video alarm system. Designed for mobile and permanent security applications, Vigileyez stood out with its high-resolution imaging, long battery life, and false alarm filtering technology, which reduced nuisance alerts by over 90%. The system’s ability to support up to 64 cameras without additional hardware made it an exceptionally scalable and cost-effective solution.
Can we expect breakthroughs in wireless connectivity, power efficiency, or integration with broader security ecosystems?
Analytics and Software Innovation Award
The Analytics and Software Innovation Award highlights platforms that transform raw security data into actionable intelligence. As AI and deep learning continue to advance, this category recognises solutions that drive automation and real-time decision-making.
Last year, Hanwha’s AI-powered analytics solution stood out for its ability to enhance surveillance with real-time object detection, tracking, and forensic search capabilities. Designed to streamline security operations, it enabled users to quickly sift through large volumes of video data with precision.
How will analytics solutions evolve to provide even greater efficiency?
Can AI-driven insights further reduce response times and enhance proactive security?
Cloud and SaaS Innovation Award
The Cloud and SaaS Innovation Award recognises advancements in security-as-a-service and cloud-based platforms that improve scalability, resilience, and accessibility. As cloud adoption grows, this category highlights solutions that redefine how security is managed and deployed.
In 2024, HID led the way with its cutting-edge cloud-based access control solution, providing seamless integration with existing infrastructures while enhancing cybersecurity protections. The solution delivered flexible, scalable access control that eliminated the need for on-premises hardware, offering businesses a more efficient and future-proof approach to security management.
Will this year’s nominees introduce greater AI-driven automation? How will they enhance security, compliance, and user experience in cloud-based environments?
Network and Connectivity Innovation Award
The Network and Connectivity Innovation Award acknowledges advancements in infrastructure that enable seamless, high-performance security networks. As video surveillance, IoT devices, and cloud-based security systems demand higher bandwidth and resilience, networking solutions must evolve to meet these challenges.
Last year’s winner, Barox, impressed with its RY-LGSO38-10 10Gb SFP Light Core Ethernet switch. Designed for video-over-IP applications, the switch offered extensive security features, high CPU performance, and support for jumbo frames, ensuring reliable data transmission with minimal loss. Its ability to handle high data loads in multicast environments made it a standout for modern security networks.
What new advancements will emerge in cybersecurity protections, bandwidth efficiency, and edge network resilience?
Innovator Company of the Year Award
The Innovator Company of the Year Award recognises the organisation that has made the most significant impact in security innovation. This category goes beyond individual products, celebrating companies that drive industry-wide change.
In 2024, Hikvision took the top honour, demonstrating leadership through its continued advancements in AI-driven security solutions, deep learning analytics, and cutting-edge surveillance technology. The company’s focus on multi-sensor integration, cybersecurity, and scalable security solutions solidified its position as a pioneer in the field.
As the industry gears up for the 2025 Benchmark Innovation Awards, which company will lead the way in defining the future of security?
Innovator (Distributor) Company of the Yea
The new Innovator (Distributor) Company of the Year award emphasises the importance of distributors as the crucial link between manufacturers and end-users. These companies not only ensure the efficient delivery of cutting-edge security products but also provide essential technical support, training, and market education. Their innovative practices and dedication significantly influence the accessibility and implementation of advanced security solutions across various sectors.
Nominate Now for the Benchmark Innovation Awards 2025
The Benchmark Innovation Awards 2025 are now open for nominations. If your company is pushing the boundaries of security technology, this is your opportunity to be recognised as a leader in innovation.
Which solutions will set new benchmarks this year? Submit your nomination and be part of the conversation shaping the future of security.
Nominate here: