This category is open to entrepreneurs who have started a business within the last 12 months. (from July 2022) Judges will consider the journey undertaken by the entrepreneur from concept to reality, the barriers that were overcome, the determination and passion behind the business, and the results.

Open to entrepreneurs aged 30 and under from any business discipline. Judges will also consider the business model, the product/service and the aspirations of the business. Judges will also consider the business model, the product/service and the potential to scale.

The Social Entrepreneur of the Year Award will be awarded to a woman who has demonstrated success when incorporating community benefit with a sustainable business model. The winner will be leading a business with a clear social purpose, going above and beyond to ensure that the business supports their community and gives back

This award is for a creative business owned by a woman of colour and based in the creative sector (PR, design, TV, music advertising or marketing.) The business must have been trading for at least 18 months. Entrants must demonstrate a considered approach to financial achievement and future business success.

 This category puts the spotlight on women whose work and/or organisation has
achieved an outstanding impact on communities and society in Great Britain with a focus on challenging race inequality.

The Outstanding Woman in Professional Services category recognises women from across the professional services spectrum – (this includes bankers, accountants, doctors, lawyers, architects). The award will go to a woman of colour who has demonstrated leadership, innovative thinking or community service in this sector. The judging panel will be looking for someone with a proven track record of excelling in their field and who supports and champions the cause of other women in their industry.

This award is open to women of colour working in Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM)

Nominations are welcome from women who have a clearly defined career path and who by endeavouring to be exceptional have achieved outstanding success in their career to date,

The award is open to any woman of colour working in the public sector. Applications are welcome from individuals from all careers within the public sector, including but not limited to housing, healthcare, local authorities  and education. Judges will look for women who have a clearly defined career path and who, by exceptional effort, have achieved outstanding success in their career to date.

This award shines a light on women of colour who have a leadership role within the workplace.
Nominees will have experience in leading a team of people, a department function or management where autonomous decisions are made and where responsibility lies.

Judges will look for examples of strong leadership; a personable approach to those affected by the decisions of the leader and will consider the views of colleagues of the leader in terms of inspiration, leadership style and outcomes.

The Sustainability Champion of the Year Award recognises women of colour who has worked to implement a sustainability project/initiative or a woman who has made a transformational impact championing sustainable practices across her industry. Examples of  sustainability could include reducing carbon emissions, improving flood resilience, mitigation or prevention, biodiversity, air quality, sustainable transport or infrastructure, reduced waste and the circular economy.
Their efforts will have made a positive impact on their peers, their business or wider community. Nominations must provide evidence of impact, and of excellent  practice in engaging and inspiring others.

This category is open to any business formed or operated by a woman of colour that has been trading for at least three years.  The business needs to be able to show at least one-year’s set of accounts and should have a turnover not exceeding £3m per annum. Judges will look for evidence of a well-managed business, a pattern of increase in turnover, and a clear brand identity.