Award Nominations

Champions of Opportunity Awards

presented at the 2026 State of the Workforce

Friday, April 24, 2026
Renaissance Hotel
11925 N Meridian St., Carmel

We are debuting a brand-new awards program during the State of the Workforce to recognize employers, educators, volunteers, and community partners expanding workforce opportunities across Hamilton County. Open to nominations from across the community, the awards include Pipeline Partner of the Year, Innovative Pathway of the Year, Barrier-Breaking Business of the Year, and the 2026 Champion of Opportunity. 

Award Descriptions

Pipeline Partner of the Year 

This award recognizes an employer who has shown exceptional commitment to hosting and supporting K-12 interns. The ideal partner provides meaningful work-based learning experiences, strong mentorship, and clear pathways for students to explore careers, and can be nominated by schools and interns.

Innovative Pathway of the Year  

This award celebrates a school-based or intermediary program that goes the extra mile to connect students with high-quality experiences. The ideal program collaborates effectively with employers, educators, and families, and consistently champions equitable access to work-based learning opportunities. Schools and employers may nominate a program for this recognition.

Barrier-Breaking Business of the Year

This award honors a business or organization that has meaningfully expanded employment opportunities by removing barriers and creating pathways to stable, high-quality work. The ideal organization takes an active, solutions-oriented approach by collaborating with partners, sharing expertise, and helping more residents access meaningful employment while strengthening the local workforce. This may include employing individuals with disabilities or supporting those re-entering the workforce after justice involvement.

2026 Champion of Opportunity 

This award recognizes an individual who has made an exceptional contribution to expanding workforce opportunities and strengthening talent pipelines in Hamilton County. The ideal recipient demonstrates standout leadership, commitment, and measurable community impact through their actions and results.

Nominations are now open and will close on March 6, with award recipients recognized during the State of the Workforce event.