Exceptional early-career women making waves in their field—those already shaping the future within their first decade of work.
What We’re Looking For
Early achievements and contributions
Exceptional potential as a future leader
Innovation and creativity
Leadership and influence
Community engagement through work and leadership values
Who Should Apply
Early-career professionals (within first 10 years of experience)
Not intended for senior leaders, executives, or C-suite professionals
Demonstrate future-forward thinking with an innovative idea, solution, or approach
Show initial quantifiable impact in their field
Exhibit leadership potential and initiative
Application Questions
Most answers have a 300-500 word maximum limit.
Early Achievements
Describe your current role and the impact you’ve made early in your career.
What are your responsibilities in your current role?
What significant achievements or contributions have you made so far?
How have you made an impact in your field or community?
Potential & Promise
Demonstrate your potential as a future leader.
Give examples of how you have shown exceptional potential and promise.
Describe a project or initiative you led or contributed to—what was your role and the outcome?
Innovation & Creativity
Highlight your creative thinking and innovative solutions.
How have you demonstrated innovation and creativity in your work or community involvement? Provide specific examples.
Leadership & Influence
Show your commitment to growth and influence on others.
What steps have you taken for your professional development (training, mentorship, education)?
How have you influenced or inspired others?
Community & Collaboration
Explain your engagement with your community or industry.
How do you collaborate with others to achieve your goals?
How do you contribute to your community or industry?
Additional Information
Share anything else that distinguishes you as a Rising Star.
Why do you believe you should be recognized as a Rising Star?
Any additional insights or supporting documents.
Application Fees
There is a $249 application fee for each submission, with $99 early bird application fees available for a limited time. Applications are completed once payment is received via our payment platform, Stripe. If you need help affording a submission, reach out to our team to inquire about subsidized submissions.
Have questions?
If you have questions about this category or the application process, please refer to the FAQs on the Awards page, or contact the WIN team at awards@womenininnovation.co.
