Call for Proposals: Entrepreneur of The Year Program (US)

The Entrepreneur Of The Year Program recognizes visionary CEOs and business leaders who are driving growth, innovation, and positive societal impact. It offers high-profile recognition, elite peer networks, and access to strategic expertise for entrepreneurs leading high-performing, for-profit companies.

The Entrepreneur Of The Year Program celebrates ambitious entrepreneurs who are shaping the future economy while building more equitable, sustainable, and prosperous businesses. The program recognizes leadership excellence, long-term value creation, and transformative impact across industries.

Program Purpose and Core Focus

The program is designed to:

• Recognize outstanding entrepreneurial leadership

• Highlight companies delivering strong growth and innovation

• Promote sustainable business practices and long-term value creation

• Connect entrepreneurs with influential peers and experts

It serves as both a prestigious award and a growth platform for top-performing business leaders.

Who Is Eligible?

Entrepreneur Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must meet all leadership requirements:

• Serve as CEO or President of a company

• Be primarily responsible for the company’s recent performance

• Have held the leadership role for at least two years by the application deadline

• Be one of the following:

  • Founder or co-founder

  • Multigenerational family business leader

  • Transformational CEO of a company or subsidiary

Previous finalists, non-winning applicants, and former winners are eligible to reapply if they are leading a new or transitioned company.

Company Eligibility Criteria

To qualify, the company must:

• Be a for-profit business

• Have operated for at least two years

• Generate a minimum of $10 million in annual revenue

• Demonstrate strong growth, scalability, and future expansion plans

What Participants Gain

Recognition and Visibility

• Public recognition as a top entrepreneurial leader

• Enhanced credibility with customers, suppliers, and investors

• Local and market-level celebration of company success

Networking and Peer Learning

• Access to a global peer network of high-performing entrepreneurs

• Opportunities for collaboration, partnerships, and shared learning

• Exclusive peer-to-peer leadership experiences

Strategic Support and Expertise

• Direct engagement with EY subject-matter professionals

• Guidance on:

  • Growth strategy

  • Innovation and transformation

  • Long-term value creation

Why the Program Matters

• Elevates entrepreneurs who are driving economic and social progress

• Strengthens leadership capabilities at critical growth stages

• Builds trusted networks among influential business decision-makers

• Encourages sustainable, responsible entrepreneurship

How to Apply

1. Confirm Eligibility
   Ensure both the entrepreneur and company meet all criteria.

2. Prepare Leadership Profile
   Clearly outline leadership role, impact, and accountability.

3. Demonstrate Business Performance
   Highlight growth, revenue, and strategic milestones.

4. Showcase Vision and Impact
   Explain how the company creates long-term value and future growth.

5. Submit Application
   Complete all required sections accurately and concisely.

Tips for a Strong Application

• Focus on measurable growth and leadership impact

• Clearly explain your personal role in company success

• Highlight long-term strategy, not just short-term results

• Be specific about innovation and value creation

• Ensure financial data aligns with eligibility thresholds

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Applying without meeting the revenue minimum

• Failing to demonstrate personal leadership responsibility

• Submitting vague growth or impact claims

• Overlooking the two-year leadership requirement

• Treating the application as marketing rather than evidence-based

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Who can apply to the Entrepreneur Of The Year Program?
CEOs or Presidents of for-profit companies meeting revenue, growth, and leadership criteria.

2. Can previous applicants apply again?
Yes. Previous finalists, non-winners, and past winners leading new companies may reapply.

3. Are startups eligible?
Only if they are for-profit, have operated for at least two years, and meet the $10 million revenue threshold.

4. Is this a global or local program?
The program operates at local, national, and global levels, depending on region.

5. Does the program offer funding or investment?
No direct funding is provided; the value lies in recognition, visibility, and networks.

6. Are public companies eligible?
Yes, both private and public companies may apply if criteria are met.

7. Is there a fee to apply?
Application fees vary by region; applicants should verify local program details.

Conclusion

The Entrepreneur Of The Year Program is a premier platform for recognizing business leaders who combine vision, performance, and impact. For CEOs ready to elevate their profile, expand their network, and be recognized among the world’s leading entrepreneurs, this program offers unmatched credibility and long-term value.