We are excited to announce the launch of the nomination process for the National Business Leadership Star Awards, celebrating America’s brightest business stars! This prestigious event aims to recognize, celebrate, and amplify the voices of exceptional leaders, who are transforming American business through their innovation, leadership, and unwavering commitment to excellence.
Nomination Categories
Rising Star Award
“Tomorrow’s Leaders, Today”
Celebrating emerging talents in early management roles.
Eligible Positions:
- Team Lead/Supervisor
- Project Manager
- Assistant Manager
- Department Manager
- Junior Program Manager
Visionary Star Award
“Leading with Purpose”
Recognizing mid-level leaders guiding teams and implementing transformative strategies.
Eligible Positions:
- Senior Manager
- Director
- Senior Program Manager
- Department Head
- Regional Manager
Ally Champion Star Award
“Experts of Strategy and Success”
Honoring leaders instrumental in developing women for leadership opportunities.
Eligible Positions:
- Senior Director
- Executive Director
- Vice President (VP) / SVP
- Area Vice President
- Divisional Vice President
Game Changer Star Award
“Breaking Barriers, Setting New Standards”
Celebrating executive leaders revolutionizing their industries.
Eligible Positions:
- Executive Vice President (EVP)
- Group Vice President
- Managing Director
- General Manager
- C-Suite (excluding CEO)
2026 National Business Leadership Star Awards
Frequently Asked Questions
General Information
Q: What are the Star Awards?
A: The Star Awards are prestigious employee recognitions presented at the National Business Leadership Conference that honor outstanding leadership, innovation, and impact in the business world. These awards spotlight leaders who are redefining excellence and driving progress in their industries.
Q: When will the awards be presented?
A: The awards will be presented during the luncheon at the National Business Leadership Conference on September 18, 2026.
Q: What are the award categories?
There are four award categories:
- Rising Star: Tomorrow’s Leaders, Today – Celebrates young professionals or emerging leaders showing exceptional promise in their early careers
- Visionary Star: Leading with Purpose – Recognizes bold, purpose-driven leaders shaping the future through transformational leadership
- Ally Champion Star: Experts of Strategy and Success – Honors leaders who actively champion and advance women in business through advocacy, mentorship, and inclusive leadership
- Game Changer Star: Breaking Barriers, Setting New Standards – Spotlights trailblazers who are pushing boundaries, innovating fearlessly, and rewriting the rules of success
Nomination Process
Q: When are nominations open?
A: Nominations are currently open and there is no cost to submit nominations.
Q: When is the nomination deadline?
A: All nominations must be received by May 15, 2026.
Q: How many nominations can I submit?
A: You may submit one nominee per category.
Q: Are all welcome to apply?
A: Yes, all qualified individuals from companies and organizations with 500 or more employees are welcome to be nominated.
Q: What information will be required for the nomination?
A: You will need to provide the nominee’s name, title, bio, a high-resolution headshot, and complete answers to all questions on the nomination form. All nominees should have manager approval to participate.
Selection Process and Requirements
Q: When will winners be notified?
A: Winners will be notified on June 30, 2026.
Q: When will winners be publicly announced?
A: While winners will be notified in June, the public announcement will be made at the National Business Leadership Conference on Friday, September 18, 2026.
Q: Can I share that I’ve won an award before the conference?
A: We respectfully request that all honorees refrain from any public announcements, social media posts, press releases, or other promotional activities regarding their selection until the official announcement at the National Business Leadership Conference on September 18, 2026. This embargo ensures all winners can be celebrated together at our special event.
Q: Do honorees need to be present to win?
A: Yes, honorees MUST be present to win and pay their own travel expenses.
Q: Are there any fees for honorees?
A: Honorees will receive a free pass to the entire conference [September 17-18, 2026], but they must cover their own travel and lodging expenses to the Gaylord Resort and Conference Center, Washington, DC.
Any other colleagues or family members must pay the conference registration fee to attend.
Recognition and Promotion
Q: What marketing will be used to announce the honorees?
A: Honorees will be promoted during the conference and through a social media campaign following the Awards Luncheon.
Q: Where will the winner’s information be published?
A: Winner’s information will be published on the conference website, and social media platforms.
Why Nominate
Why Nominate?
- Shine a spotlight on transformative leadership
- Inspire others with powerful success stories
- Celebrate those who are making a real difference
- Excellent opportunity for employee recognition
Contact Information
Q: Whom should I contact if I have additional questions?
A: For additional questions about the Star Awards, please email janet@executivewomanmedia.com.
Q: Where can I find more information about the National Business Leadership Conference?
A: For more information about the conference, please visit www.executivewomanmedia.com or NBL.solutions
START THE NOMINATION PROCESS NOW
Awards Ceremony Details: Join us at The Gaylord National Resort and Convention Center September 17-18 to honor these remarkable individuals.
Nomination Process: Nominations will be open until May 15th for individuals who exemplify outstanding leadership, drive meaningful change, mentor future leaders, contribute significantly to their industry, and champion diversity and inclusion.
Please use a business email address or any other non-gmail address to register.
How to Nominate Someone for the Star Awards
Step 1: Choose Your Award Category
- Look at the four award categories listed above:
- Rising Star Award
- Visionary Star Award
- Game Changer Star Award
- Ally Champion Star Award
Step 2: Start the Nomination
- Click the green “+” button next to the award category you want to nominate for
- This will take you to the next screen with the nomination form
Step 3: Log In
- Log In to Start the Nomination Process
- If you haven’t logged in before, you’ll need to create an account
- Use a business address (not Gmail) or any other non-Gmail email address
- If you’ve already done that, click “Already Started? Log in’
Step 4: Complete the Nomination
- There is NO COST TO Nominate