Cloud Security Alliance’s AI Controls Matrix (AICM) Named 2026 CSO Awards Winner

Honored as the first framework built to address real-world generative AI risks

SEATTLE, March 10, 2026 — The Cloud Security Alliance (CSA), the world’s leading not-for-profit organization committed to AI, cloud, and Zero Trust cybersecurity education, is pleased to announce that its AI Controls Matrix (AICM), a first-of-its-kind vendor-agnostic controls framework for developing, implementing, and operating AI technologies in a secure and responsible manner, has been named a winner of the 2026 CSO Awards. The CSO Awards recognize organizations annually for their exceptional security projects and initiatives that showcase substantial business value and innovative thought leadership in cybersecurity.

Developed by industry experts, AICM builds on CSA’s Cloud Controls Matrix (CCM) and incorporates the latest AI security best practices. It serves as the foundation for STAR for AI, offering a comprehensive, actionable blueprint for securing generative AI systems—from model providers to orchestrated service platforms, infrastructure operators, and application developers. 

"On behalf of everyone at the Cloud Security Alliance, I’m incredibly proud to see the AI Controls Matrix recognized as the winner of a 2026 CSO Award. This honor reflects the dedication of our global community to advancing trusted, secure AI, and cloud practices at a time when clarity and accountability matter more than ever. AICM represents our commitment to turning industry collaboration into measurable impact, and we’re gratified to see that work acknowledged,” said Jim Reavis, CEO and co-founder, Cloud Security Alliance.

Grounded in CSA’s proven compliance DNA and inspired by today’s complex AI ecosystems, AICM bridges the gap between ethical guidelines and real-world implementation, enabling all stakeholders in the AI value chain to align their roles and responsibilities and measurably reduce risk. By understanding and implementing AICM, organizations are preparing for compliance with the hundreds of international AI regulations and standards coming into effect. 

“This year’s award winners show how security teams have repositioned themselves as strategic business enablers,” said Beth Kormanik, Content Director of the CSO Cybersecurity Awards & Conference. “They tackle business challenges by leveraging new technology and ideas and delivering detailed planning and strong execution. Their organizations are stronger for these efforts that protect revenue continuity, improve resilience, and strengthen compliance. We congratulate them and look forward to celebrating them at the CSO Cybersecurity Awards & Conference."

Learn more about the AI Controls Matrix (AICM).

About CSO:
CSO serves enterprise security decision-makers and users with the critical information they need to stay ahead of evolving threats and defend against criminal cyberattacks. With incisive content that addresses all security disciplines, from risk management to network defense to fraud and data loss prevention, CSO offers unparalleled depth and insight to support key decisions and investments for IT security professionals. www.csoonline.com

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About the CSO Awards and CSO Hall of Fame Award Inductees
The CSO Awards recognize organizations for security projects and initiatives demonstrating outstanding business value and thought leadership. The CSO Hall of Fame honors leaders who have significantly contributed to advancing information risk management and security. Inductees exemplify the qualities of leadership and excellence and, by their example, contribute to improving security across all organizations. Award winners are honored at the CSO Cybersecurity Awards & Conference.

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About Cloud Security Alliance
The Cloud Security Alliance (CSA) is the world’s leading not-for-profit organization committed to awareness, practical implementation, and credentialing of forward-looking cybersecurity topics, including AI, cloud, and Zero Trust. In an era where digital transformation drives business success, CSA stands as the global authority ensuring organizations can operate securely while harnessing cutting-edge technology. Through volunteer-driven research, globally-accepted standards, and award-winning vendor-neutral education programs that unite technical experts, industry practitioners, and varied associations, governments, chapters, and corporate members, CSA bridges the gap between innovation and pragmatic security execution. Visit CSA’s website to learn more.

Media Contact
Kristina Rundquist
ZAG Communications for the CSA
[email protected]