The Wilmington Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce the opening of nominations for the 40 Under 40 Awards, an annual recognition program highlighting outstanding young professionals who are making significant contributions to our community.

Now in its 6th year, the 40 Under 40 Awards aim to honor individuals under the age of 40 who exemplify exceptional leadership, innovation, and service within Brunswick, New Hanover, or Pender counties. From dedicated nonprofit champions to dynamic business leaders and committed community servants, the award celebrates the diverse talents and contributions of our region's emerging leaders.

Criteria for nomination include:

• Nominees must be younger than 40 years old as of October 2, 2024.

• Nominees must reside or work within Brunswick, New Hanover, or Pender counties.

• Nominees must demonstrate a strong commitment to serving others in the community.

Past recipients of the 40 Under 40 Awards have been actively involved in various community endeavors, including nonprofits, church leadership, and innovative business ventures. Their collective impact has helped shape the fabric of our region, inspiring positive change and progress.

Nominations are open until 12:00 pm on April 26, 2024. We encourage individuals and organizations across the community to submit detailed and specific nominations to ensure deserving candidates receive proper recognition.

A distinguished panel of judges, comprised of chamber leadership, previous award winners, local business leaders, and government partners, will carefully review all submissions to select the final recipients. Their decisions will be based on the content and quality of the nominations, emphasizing the nominee's impact, leadership qualities, and dedication to community service.

The Wilmington Chamber’s 6th Annual 40 Under 40 Awards ceremony will take place on Wednesday, October 9 at the historic Thalian Hall. This anticipated event will gather community leaders, supporters, and honorees to celebrate the achievements and promise of our region's young professionals.

Nominations for 2024 will be open from Monday, March 18, through 12:00 pm on April 26, 2024. To submit a nomination, please click here.

A panel of judges that includes chamber leadership, previous award winners, local business leaders, and government partners will choose the recipients based on the content submitted, so be detailed and specific in your nomination!

Questions about nominations can be sent to April Davis at davis@wilmingtonchamber.org. 

To learn more about sponsorship opportunities, contact Billy Christ at christ@wilmingtonchamber.org.

Meet previous award winners: