Award Categories
Find the category that best reflects your achievements.
Whether you've built a business, led transformational change, driven innovation or made a lasting impact within your organisation or community, there's a category designed to recognise your achievements.
Explore the categories below to find the one that's right for you.
Entrepreneur of the Year
Recognising an exceptional founder who has built an outstanding business and is making a significant contribution to the North East economy.
Founder Categories
For women who have founded and grown businesses that are making a positive impact across the North East.
Scale-up Founder of the Year
Recognising a founder who has successfully grown a business beyond the start-up phase and is achieving sustained commercial growth.
Innovator of the Year
Recognising a founder whose innovation is creating meaningful change through new ideas, products, services or technology.
Start-up Founder of the Year
Celebrating a founder who has built a business trading for up to three years and demonstrated exceptional early progress and potential.
Young Entrepreneur of the Year
Celebrating an entrepreneur aged 30 or under who is already making a significant impact through their business.
Social Entrepreneur of the Year
Celebrating a founder using business to create lasting social or environmental impact.
Leadership & Work Categories
For women creating impact through leadership within established organisations.
Emerging Leader of the Year
Recognising an individual demonstrating exceptional potential, influence and impact early in their leadership journey.
Director of the Year
Recognising a senior leader whose strategic leadership has delivered significant organisational, commercial or societal impact.
Community Impact Award
Recognising a woman creating lasting positive impact in communities across the North East, including through the third sector, her professional role, volunteering or an independent initiative.
Manager of the Year
Celebrating an outstanding manager who inspires others, develops their team and delivers exceptional results.
Public Service Leader of the Year
Celebrating an inspirational leader delivering meaningful impact for their organisation, communities or citizens through public service.
Recognition Categories
Recognising individuals and organisations creating a lasting impact beyond traditional leadership roles.
Mentor of the Year
Recognising an individual who has made a lasting difference through mentoring and supporting others.
Employer of the Year
Recognising an organisation creating an outstanding and inclusive workplace where women can thrive, progress and succeed.
Equality, Diversity & Inclusion Award
Celebrating an individual taking meaningful action to challenge barriers and create more inclusive workplaces and opportunities.
In Partnership with
Role Model of the Year
Recognising a woman whose example, generosity and contribution inspires others and who consistently supports and lifts those around her.
Not sure which category is right?
Every category has detailed eligibility guidance and judging criteria to help you choose.
If you're still unsure, we'd be happy to help you identify the category that best reflects your achievements.