Owensboro Sister Cities and Regions has earned the 2025 Innovation in Business, Trade, and Professional Exchange Award from Sister Cities International for cities with a population of 100,001–300,000.
The recognition stems from OSCAR’s Firefighter Exchange Program with Sister City Olomouc, Czech Republic and it is a first-of-its-kind initiative launched in 2024 to enhance both professional training and cultural diplomacy.
Two delegations from Owensboro, Daviess County, and surrounding fire departments traveled to Olomouc in April and September for hands-on training in fire suppression, emergency response, cancer prevention, and structural firefighting. They also worked active shifts alongside Czech firefighters, participated in cultural immersion, and held planning sessions to ensure the exchange is sustainable.
Officials said the program has improved safety strategies, strengthened fire department readiness, and deepened the sister city relationship. A reciprocal visit from Czech firefighters is scheduled for later this year.
According to a release, Sister Cities International has honored innovative programming since 1962 in categories including arts, culture, business, and youth engagement. The 2025 awards were presented during the organization’s Annual Business Meeting on July 22 in Fort Worth, Texas.
