Eligibility

Can I enter myself for the Young Business Leader Award?

Yes! We except self-nominations for the Young Business Leader Award (nobody knows how much you have achieved as you do!). You will need to create an Awards Force account, start an entry and choose the "Young Business Leader Award - Application" category. 

Entrants in this category must be 30 years of age or younger, as of the application closing date (12 October 2026).

Does entering mean we are automatically a finalist?

In previous years, this has been the case. However as the awards continue to grow in popularity, a finalist shortlisting process will be introduced if a category receives more than five eligible entries. In this case, the judges will select up to five finalists to progress in that category.

If an award category receives five or fewer eligible entries, all eligible entrants will progress as finalists, provided they meet the entry requirements and judging criteria.

If a category does not receive enough entries, the Chamber reserves the right to combine categories, reduce the number of finalists, or not present an award in a category where there are insufficient entries or where entries do not sufficiently meet the judging criteria.

Do I need to be a member of Nelson Tasman Chamber of Commerce to enter?

No, the Chamber welcomes entries from all businesses in the region regardless of their membership status.

Can a franchise enter?

Yes, definitely. Franchisees frequently enter, and win. NB: The financials required would only be needed for your relevant branch.