Business Observer 2024 40 Under 40 nominations now open

The Business Observer is accepting nominations for our annual 40 Under 40 issue. 

40 Under 40 is one of the most well-read issues of the year. Like in past years, our goal is to find, and then honor and celebrate, the best of the best of the up-and-comers. We want to discover the brightest minds, boldest executives and best entrepreneurs in the region. 

The question we hear the most with 40 Under 40? What makes someone a 40 Under 40 winner?

The answer is a combination of the tangible and intangible.

A big part is demonstrable success in your field. A high level of achievement that separates you from the pack. That could be within a big or small organization, company or nonprofit. But it could also be in starting and leading your own business. People who go against the grain and take a chance on themselves to start something from nothing? That gets you to the top of our 40 Under 40 candidate list. 

Another key factor we look for is hustle. People who go after it and create their own success. Also people who are risk-takers and who are willing to go against conventional wisdom. (See above.) Finally, we seek the movers and shakers, the people who, if you are new to town, you have to meet.

Other qualifications: The issue is open to entrepreneurs, executives and professionals in any field or industry, including nonprofits, from Polk through Collier counties. The nominee must be under 40 up until Oct. 10, 2024. Self-nominations are accepted and encouraged. 

To submit a nomination, visit BusinessObserverFL.com/submit-40-under-40-2024. 

You will be asked to include the nominee’s city, age, company and title along with your contact information and their contact information. Please be able to describe in 300 words or fewer why this nominee is a business community superstar. You also must be willing to participate in a photo and video shoot for the issue, and be willing to talk about your mentors in life and your career. 

The nomination deadline is Friday, Aug. 2. 

Questions? Email Business Observer Managing Editor Mark Gordon at [email protected].