Shine a spotlight on the incredible women shaping the future of our region.
These honors celebrate excellence in leadership, innovation, mentorship, and community across 13 diverse industries.
Nominations are now CLOSED for 2026.
Who Is an Influential Woman?
She could be a CEO, a teacher, a nurse, a manager, or the office admin who keeps everything moving.
She’s the woman others rely on—whether she’s leading the charge or working behind the scenes.
She mentors. She listens. She delivers. She makes things better simply by being part of them.
An Influential Woman isn’t defined by a title—she’s defined by her impact.
By the respect she earns, the way she lifts others, and the difference she makes in the lives around her.
This program is about honoring all of them—across every industry, every level, and every role. From rising stars to seasoned pros. From the front lines to the C-suite.
And we recognize those who support them, too—the teams, companies, mentors, and peers who help them shine.
If she’s made an impact on you, your workplace, or your community—nominate her.
Let’s make sure she knows the difference she makes.
Because influence isn’t about position—it’s about presence.
Industry Categories
Arts
Business
Construction / Manufacturing
Economic Development / Government
Education
Finance
Healthcare
Law
Marketing / Media
Nonprofit
Real Estate
Service / Tourism
STEM
Two awards are given to nominees in the following 13 industries:
In addition to industry-specific awards, the Influential Women program also recognizes individuals whose impact extends across the region:
Overall Influential Woman of the Year
Overall Up & Coming Woman of the Year
Community Leader of the Year
Supporter of the Year
Eligibility Requirements
Nominees must be a female.
Nominees must work or live in Northwest Indiana.
Previous nominees/finalists are welcome to be nominated.
Self-nominations are accepted.
There are no costs to nominate, and there are no costs for nominees to fill out their applications. Nominees will only need to purchase a ticket to attend the banquet.
Women do not need to be a member of NWIIWA to be nominated, submit their application, or win an award.
Following your submission, your nominee will be contacted with a congratulatory letter. They will also receive their application where further information will be gathered to determine award type and business category. There are no costs to the nominee to submit their applications.
All nomination submissions are reviewed by a selection committee consisting of a diverse group of leaders from the community.
