This paper presents an evolution overview of the regional awards for quality in Brazil. From a literature review addressing the awards for quality and excellence models adopted by many countries in the world. For the Brazilian model this article will address the regional awards for quality based on the creation of the Prêmio Nacional da Qualidade (PNQ) in 1991 and the American quality award influence in the consolidation of the Brazilian model. This paper presents the 17 regional awards of quality that make up the Rede Nacional da Gestão Rumo à Excelência of the Fundação Nacional da Qualidade, and presents the quality state programs that coordinate and underpin such awards. It is also intended to contribute to a further discussion on the excellence models regionally adopted in Brazil, given the low approach this issue in the Brazilian literature, thus contributing to a greater understanding of the subject.