Each year, Forward Janesville’s Annual Awards Luncheon brings our community together to celebrate the people, businesses and organizations that make Janesville a stronger place to live, work and do business.

Today, we’re excited to announce that nominations are officially open for the 2026 Awards Luncheon, and we invite you to help us recognize the outstanding contributions made throughout 2025.

From dedicated advocates and innovative entrepreneurs to community champions and emerging leaders, these awards shine a spotlight on those who go above and beyond to move our community forward. Whether it’s a business that exemplifies customer service and community involvement, an educator building meaningful partnerships, or an individual whose leadership leaves a lasting impact, your nominations help tell the stories that deserve to be shared.

And we will celebrate them later this spring (more information coming soon!).

Nominations are being accepted across a variety of award categories, including Advocacy, Emerging Leader, Community Improvement, Educator of the Year, Entrepreneur of the Year, Business of the Year (for both small and large employers), Diversity, and Lifetime Achievement. Together, these honors reflect the many ways individuals and organizations contribute to Janesville’s growth, success, and sense of community.

SUBMIT YOUR NOMINATIONS BY FEB. 6 HERE

We encourage everyone to participate in the nomination process — and yes, self-nominations are welcome and encouraged. If you know someone who deserves recognition, or if you’d like to share your own story of impact, this is your opportunity to do so.

The nomination deadline is Friday, Feb. Submitting a nomination is easy and only takes a few minutes.

The date for the 2026 Awards Luncheon will be announced soon, along with details on event registration. In the meantime, we hope you’ll take a moment to think about the people and organizations who made a difference in 2025 and help us honor their achievements.

Together, let’s celebrate the leaders, innovators and changemakers who continue to make Janesville a community we’re proud to call home.