In 2002, the Vehbi Koç Foundation Board of Directors decided to present a “Vehbi Koç Award” in the areas of education, culture and health; in 2003, AÇEV was deemed worthy of this award in the area of education.

The Vehbi Koç Awards presented by the Vehbi Koç Foundation aim to encourage and reward individuals and organizations that contribute to raising the quality of life of the Turkish people; its Selection Committee consists of scientists and experts.

In the announcement made by the Vehbi Koç Foundation regarding the presentation of the “Vehbi Koç Award” to AÇEV in 2003, it was noted that, “Active for a decade in an area that is globally accepted as having vital importance in terms of personal and social development, namely early childhood education, AÇEV has reached a large number of people to date, and through the television programs prepared together with TRT, has expanded this audience even further.” Furthermore, it was added that, “another exemplary aspect of AÇEV's activities is the collaborative efforts undertaken with official and private institutions. Through the collaborations struck with either the Ministry of National Education, or other non-governmental organizations, AÇEV has amplified its influence and effectiveness.”