noun
encouragement award; honorable mention
A prize given to recognize effort or promise, often in competitions, contests, or academic settings. It is not the top prize but acknowledges good work.
彼はコンテストで奨励賞をもらった。
He received an encouragement award at the contest.
奨励賞に選ばれて嬉しいです。
I'm happy to have been chosen for the honorable mention.