Software Finder sets 2027 awards calendar, starting Dec. 1

Software Finder announced a six-program 2027 awards schedule for software vendors, beginning with the Core Experience Awards on Dec. 1, 2026. The lineup includes new size-based Excellence Award distinctions and recurring recognition categories tied to verified reviews and product performance.

Why it matters: - Software Finder’s awards aim to give software buyers faster, trust-based signals drawn from verified reviews. - The 2027 schedule expands recognition options for vendors across product quality, customer feedback and AI innovation. - Every award is independently scored, with sponsorships and payments excluded from the selection process.

What happened: - Software Finder announced its 2027 awards schedule on Nov. 10, 2026. - The first program, the 2027 Core Experience Awards, will be announced Dec. 1, 2026. - The Core Experience Awards will recognize four areas: ease of use, value, support and features. - The award categories are Easiest to Use, Best Value, Best Support and Best Features.

The details: - Core Experience winners must average at least 8/10 in the relevant strength area. - Eligible products also need at least 10 verified reviews. - Every listed product is eligible, with no nominations or paid entry. - Ratings are re-evaluated every year. - Marium Lodhi, Software Finder co-founder and CMO, said buyers want signals they can trust and that the awards help buyers move faster while giving vendors proof of the experience they deliver. - The Excellence Award returns on Feb. 16 with Enterprise, Mid-Market and Small Business distinctions. - The Excellence Award goes to the top 10% of all listed products with 50 or more verified reviews. - Fan Favorite will run in May and October. - Category Leader will be awarded in June 2027 and December 2028. - Category Leader will go to the top 20% of products in each category, based on Software Finder’s Market Intelligence Reports. - Buyer Trusted will be awarded in July to products that reach 20 verified reviews and a 3.5+ rating. - AI Innovator recognition is ongoing for vendors featured in a published Innovator Spotlight episode or feature. - 2028 Core Experience Awards are scheduled for November, with ratings re-evaluated in October so current winners can renew and new products can qualify. - Software Finder says every award is independently scored and that sponsorships and payments never influence winners. - Vendors can check their eligibility, view the full 2027 calendar and methodology, and see what to do for the Core Experience Awards. - Software Finder describes itself as an independent software marketplace that uses real-world user insights and transparent research and evaluation tools to help organizations make more confident software decisions.

Between the lines: - The awards program appears designed to create multiple entry points for vendors at different stages of maturity, from early review milestones to broader category leadership. - The yearly re-evaluation process signals that badges are meant to be current, not permanent. - The addition of size-based Excellence distinctions suggests Software Finder is trying to make awards more relevant to different buyer segments.

What's next: - Software vendors can review eligibility and prepare for the Dec. 1 Core Experience Awards announcement. - Additional awards will roll out through 2027, with more activity continuing into 2028. - Software Finder’s media contact is Becky Susko, +1 661-384-7070. - Software Finder links its social channels at LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, YouTube and X.