Celebrate & Share (Optional, but Encouraged)
This nomination is an accomplishment.
Share the news with your company, team, family, or friends.
Download and add the Nominee Email Signature to your email and share brand guidelines with your marketing department.
Take a moment to reflect on what led you here — your work matters.
Tag #NWIIWA & #InfluentialWomenAwards so we can share your posts
If you’re on this page, it means you’ve been nominated for the Influential Women Awards.
Before diving into next steps, take a moment to pause and celebrate yourself. This nomination reflects the impact you’ve made, the leadership you’ve shown, and the way others see your work.
You don’t get nominated by accident.
To continue to the next stage, all nominees must complete the Nominee Application.
This step is required for consideration by the selection committee.
What You Need to Know
Completion of the Nominee Application is required to move forward.
You do not need to complete the application in one sitting.
You may save your progress and return later before the deadline.
The application allows you to share your experience, leadership, and impact in your own words.
What to Do Next
Click the Nominee Application link on this page
Complete all required sections
Submit the application by the stated deadline
Applications that are not completed and submitted by the deadline cannot be considered.
If you have questions or need assistance while completing the application, please contact
📧 info@nwiiwa.org
Add These Dates Below to Your Calendar
Two important events are part of the nomination process, and we strongly encourage nominees to attend both.
Nominee Mixer (Important to Attend)
The Nominee Mixer is designed to help you:
Learn more about the awards process and what to expect
Understand the timeline and next steps
Meet fellow nominees and connect with the NWIIWA team
This event is especially helpful if this is your first time being nominated.
Influential Women Awards Banquet
The Awards Banquet is a celebration of women across Northwest Indiana and the culmination of the awards program. Nominees are encouraged to attend and celebrate alongside finalists, honorees, and community leaders.
How are finalists categorized as ‘Influential’ or ‘Up & Coming’?
Finalists are placed into the most appropriate level based on experience:
Influential Woman: Typically has 15 or more years in her industry
Up & Coming Woman: Typically has fewer than 15 years of experience
Final placement is determined by NWIIWA’s review committee to ensure fairness and alignment.
How will I be recognized at the banquet?
You will be honored live during the program with others in your category.
Your name and company will appear in the event presentation, printed program, and media coverage.
When and where is the banquet?
Date: Thursday, September 24, 2026
Location: Avalon Manor Banquet Center, Merrillville, IN
Doors Open: 5:00 PM
Program Begins: 6:00 PM sharp
This is one of the largest professional celebrations in Indiana, bringing together over 900 business, nonprofit, healthcare, education, and government leaders.
Do I need a ticket to attend?
Yes, all finalists must purchase a ticket.
Member pricing applies to all finalists.
Tickets can be purchased at: www.nwiiwa.org
This event sells out every year. Encourage your team, family, and guests to buy tickets early—especially if they want to sit with you.
How does seating work?
Tables seat 10. Purchase tickets as a group to sit together.
If purchasing fewer than 10 tickets, you will be seated with others.
Children are welcome (recommended age 10+), but must have their own ticket.
What if cost is a concern?
We don’t want anyone to miss out.
If the cost of your ticket is a barrier, please email us at info@nwiiwa.org and we will do our best to connect you with a sponsor.
What’s the dress code?
Wear what makes you feel confident and award-worthy.
Whether it’s a power suit, elegant cocktail dress, sparkles, or something sleek and simple—this is your moment. Dress to celebrate.
Still have questions?
We’re here to help. Email us anytime at info@nwiiwa.org.