Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), together with ALAS Foundation, has announced the launch of the ALAS-IDB Awards to recognize innovation, investments and excellence in programs that benefit children under 6 years of age in Latin America and the Caribbean.

Luis Alberto Moreno, President of the IDB, Shakira and Alejandro Santo Domingo, business leader and ALAS Foundation President, will present the awards to the winners recognizing them as leaders and advocates of high quality early childhood development for Latin America.

This initiative is the first of its kind in the region that seeks to recognize programs of high quality, adequate intensity and duration that incorporate early education, psychosocial stimulation, nutrition and health. Inclusive programs that encourage the participation of boys and girls, families, caretakers and communities in a culturally appropriate manner will also be considered for recognition.

Shakira called upon organizations that work in early childhood education to participate: "This competition is a great opportunity to recognize and replicate high quality childhood development initiatives in Latin America. It is urgent that governments and organizations increase their commitments to early childhood education to give all of our children the opportunities that they deserve."

The first ALAS-IDB Awards will be presented at the Sixth Summit of the Americas, which will take place April 14 and 15, 2012 in the city of Cartagena de Indias, Colombia.

There are four categories:
- Center of the Year
- Practitioner of the Year
- Publication of the Year
-Early Childhood Development Innovation of the Year

Proposals will be accepted from now until March 9. To nominate a candidate, head to iadb.org/alasidb.