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Join Us at ICON25

​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!

ICON 24 Gala (119 of 214).jpg
ICON 24 Gala (126 of 214).jpg

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:

    • The nominee must be a founder, owner, or key leader of a small business, defined as having fewer than 50 employees.

    • The nominee's small business must have been in operation for a minimum of three years.

    Innovation:

    • 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:

    • 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::

    • 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.

  • Criteria for Professional of the Year Award

    Eligibility:

    • The nominee must demonstrate exceptional leadership qualities and forward-thinking within their profession, regardless of their position within the organization.

    Innovation:

    • 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:

    • The nominee should be recognized as a rising star within their profession, showing potential for future leadership and making a significant impact.

  • Criteria for HR Professional of the Year Award

    Eligibility:

    • The nominee must be an HR professional who has demonstrated outstanding performance and dedication in their field.

    Innovation:

    • The nominee's innovative efforts should have made a significant impact in one or more of the following HR components

      • Learning & Development

      • Payroll & Benefits

      • Recruitment & Talent Management

      • Workforce Planning

      • Compliance

      • Strategic Planning​

    Impact:

    • The nominee's contributions should have resulted in tangible benefits for their organization, such as:

      • Improved employee satisfaction and retention rates.

      • Enhanced teamwork and collaboration among employees.

      • Increased productivity and performance levels.

      • Strengthened employer branding and reputation as an employer of choice.

      • Positive cultural shifts leading to a more cohesive and harmonious workplace environment.

  • Criteria for the ICON of the Year Award

    Eligibility:

    • Minimum of 5 years of consistent leadership or contribution in their field, industry, or community

    • Recognized as a trusted voice or respected leader by peers, clients, or collaborators

    • Open to individuals from any industry or professional background

    Innovation:

    • Has introduced new ideas, approaches, or solutions that challenge the status quo

    • Demonstrates bold thinking and a willingness to take meaningful risks in the name of progress

    Impact:

    • Creating measurable, lasting change—whether in policy, culture, business, or community

    • Inspiring others to rise, lead, or evolve through their work, influence, or presence

About the Awards

Small Business Owner Of The Year

The Small Business of the Year award honors leaders who excel in innovation and entrepreneurship. Nominees drive positive change within their businesses, benefiting both their own growth and their industry or community.

Professional Of The Year

The Professional of the Year award honors leaders who display visionary leadership and forward-thinking in their profession. Nominees anticipate trends, inspire with innovative thinking, and drive positive change.

HR Professional Of The Year

The HR Professional of the Year award acknowledges excellence in HR management, emphasizing creative solutions for employee satisfaction and organizational and workplace success. 

ICON Of
The Year

The ICON Award is our highest honor—recognizing someone who exemplifies purpose-driven excellence, breaks boundaries, and inspires lasting change.

Submit Nomination

Which ICON Award are you submitting the nomination for?
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