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Excited to celebrate excellence and innovation? Don't miss out! Secure your ticket now to attend the full conference or join us at the prestigious ICON Awards gala. Connect with industry leaders, gain valuable insights, and be part of an unforgettable event. Reserve your spot today and be part of the celebration!
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Submit a 2025 Nomination for an ICON Award
We are thrilled to invite you to participate in recognizing the exceptional individuals who are shaping the future and leading the way in their fields. Together, let's shine the spotlight on the icons of our time!
Nomination Criteria
Criteria for Small Business Owner of the Year Award
Eligibility:
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The nominee must be a founder, owner, or key leader of a small business, defined as having fewer than 50 employees.
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The nominee's small business must have been in operation for a minimum of three years.
Innovation:
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The nominee must have introduced at least one significant innovation within their small business in the past year. This innovation could be a new product, service, or process.
Impact:
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The nominee's innovative efforts should have led to tangible benefits for the business, such as increased revenue, market expansion, or improved efficiency.
Community Contribution::
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The nominee's innovative efforts should have directly addressed a pressing community problem or need, contributing to the betterment of the local area or a specific demographic group.
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Criteria for Professional of the Year Award
Eligibility:
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The nominee must demonstrate exceptional leadership qualities and forward-thinking within their profession, regardless of their position within the organization.
Innovation:
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The nominee's innovative efforts should have led to tangible benefits for their organization or industry. This could include increased efficiency, improved processes, or enhanced outcomes.
Impact:
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The nominee should be recognized as a rising star within their profession, showing potential for future leadership and making a significant impact.
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Criteria for HR Professional of the Year Award
Eligibility:
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The nominee must be an HR professional who has demonstrated outstanding performance and dedication in their field.
Innovation:
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The nominee's innovative efforts should have made a significant impact in one or more of the following HR components
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Learning & Development
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Payroll & Benefits
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Recruitment & Talent Management
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Workforce Planning
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Compliance
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Strategic Planning
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Impact:
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The nominee's contributions should have resulted in tangible benefits for their organization, such as:
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Improved employee satisfaction and retention rates.
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Enhanced teamwork and collaboration among employees.
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Increased productivity and performance levels.
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Strengthened employer branding and reputation as an employer of choice.
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Positive cultural shifts leading to a more cohesive and harmonious workplace environment.
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Criteria for the ICON of the Year Award
Eligibility:
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Minimum of 5 years of consistent leadership or contribution in their field, industry, or community
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Recognized as a trusted voice or respected leader by peers, clients, or collaborators
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Open to individuals from any industry or professional background
Innovation:
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Has introduced new ideas, approaches, or solutions that challenge the status quo
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Demonstrates bold thinking and a willingness to take meaningful risks in the name of progress
Impact:
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Creating measurable, lasting change—whether in policy, culture, business, or community
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Inspiring others to rise, lead, or evolve through their work, influence, or presence
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