We accept nominations in three categories: Entrepreneurs, Intrapreneurs, Force for Change Awards. See the benefits and criteria below for each category:

Leading Women Entrepreneurs

Honors women business owners who excel in innovation and advocacy for women. This prestigious group of women will be selected out of hundreds of impressive nominations based on their strong business acumen and ability to both influence and inspire within their respective industries. The Top 25 will be profiled in various media outlets and through the entire LWE network. This prestigious designation is not only an authoritative marketing platform, but winners will be celebrated at executive-level events that showcase their expertise and their stories. Each event provides access to a powerful network that includes upscale cocktail hours, renowned speakers, inspiring videos and celebratory recognition ceremonies. Self-nominations are accepted and this is a NJ and NY competition

Leading Women Intrapreneurs

Honors the innovators in corporate environments who support diversity efforts. An Intrapreneur is a person within a large corporation who takes direct responsibility for turning an idea into a profitable finished product through assertive risk-taking and innovation. The Top 25 will be profiled in various media outlets and through the entire LWE network. This prestigious designation is not only an authoritative marketing platform, but winners will be celebrated at executive-level events that showcase their expertise and their stories. Each event provides access to a powerful network that includes upscale cocktail hours, renowned speakers, inspiring videos and celebratory recognition ceremonies. Self-nominations are accepted and this is a NJ and NY competition.

Force for Change Awards

In 2020 LWE launched a new statewide initiative with NJBIZ as the media partner, designed to showcase women and men across all industries who are innovators and a true “Force for Change” in 25 categories. We want to discover, connect and showcase communities, companies and individuals committed to a world with more freedom, consciousness and innovation. The awards are not a competition they are an acknowledgment of ideas, action and initiatives lead by thought leaders and people driven to make the world and our state a better place. These “stand out” business leaders who challenge the status quo have been instrumental in making New Jersey a model of innovation, leadership and financial viability for the nation. Their creativity, imagination and unique problem-solving approach positively impacts their client’s needs and paves the path for future generations.

Leading Women Socialpreneurs

Honors women who are socially conscious, problem solvers that are advocating for women and making an impact on the world. One winner will be selected from the Leading Women Socialprenuers to be featured in the custom magazine section of NJBIZ and will also be given prize money of $2500, a marketing makeover, and a free membership to LWE. The feature story on the Leading Women Socialpreneur winner will reach over 20 million readers and will also be announced and highlighted at the Leading Women Entrepreneurs Top 25 event in NJ. Self-nominations are accepted and this is a nationwide competition.