Call for Nominations are OPEN!
The Business Leaders Breakfast is more than a celebratory gathering, it is IIDA NE’s marquee event honoring those who drive progress, shape culture, and leave a lasting mark on the design industry. As part of IIDA’s broader “Leaders Breakfast” tradition, BLB positions community members not just as creators of space, but as visionary business leaders who elevate our profession and the communities we serve.
Across all of our City Centers, this event is designed to unite the established voices of emerging innovators, amplifying how design intersects with commerce, equity, and sustainability.
Whether honoring a Principal Designer who has championed firm growth and mentorship, an Emerging Leader rising on a bold trajectory, or a Student Member showing early promise, the award recognizes impact in many forms.
Past honorees like Krista Easterly of Sasaki, Matt Hyatt of Bergmeyer, or Marie Fitzgerald of SMMA, have been celebrated not just for their project work, but for impact to their own business development, contributions to IIDA, advocacy, and mentorship in the community.
As we evolve the award, our goal is to emphasize inclusive leadership, innovation, accountability, and lasting influence, ensuring each recipient embodies the values that push the industry forward.
Nomination Core Criteria
01 Leadership Impact - 30%
How has the nominee demonstrated vision, mentorship, or influence within their organization and the broader design community?
02 Business Innovation - 25%
Evidence of introducing new ideas, practices, or models that have advanced their company, the industry, or others.
03 Community Engagement - 20%
Contributions to IIDA, professional organizations, or broader civic involvement.
04 Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion - 15%
Efforts to foster inclusive practices and diverse voices in the workplace.
05 Future Forward Thinking - 10%
Commitment to responsible, forward-looking design and business practices
Nomination Forms
01 PROFESSIONAL MEMBER NOMINEE
Click here to begin filling out the Google Form for the IIDA NE Professional Member Nomination.
02 INDUSTRY MEMBER NOMINEE
Click here to begin filling out the Google Form for the IIDA NE Industry Member Nomination.
Please note: Photos and videos may be taken during this event for marketing and promotional purposes. By attending, you consent to their use. Thank you for being part of the IIDA NE community!