2026 Impact Awards Nominations Are Now Open
Why We Gather
The Impact Awards Luncheon is a high-energy celebration of bold vision, powerful partnerships, and unstoppable innovation.
What began as the Breakthrough Breakfast has evolved into a dynamic luncheon where we recognize trailblazers, spotlight collaborators, and elevate the changemakers redefining what's possible in business.
Join us and share in this extraordinary occasion!
POWERED BY SYNERGY, DRIVEN BY IMPACT
One network. Two regions. A signature celebration.
This year, WBEC Metro NY and Greater DMV will come together as a united network across two sister regions for one signature Impact Awards Luncheon in New York City. In 2027, the luncheon will be hosted in the Greater DMV.
Our theme, Powered by Synergy, Driven by Impact, reflects the value of bringing both regions together to expand visibility, strengthen cross-regional connection, and celebrate impact on a larger stage.
At the Impact Awards Luncheon, we'll gather to celebrate the shared commitment, aligned action, and purposeful partnership of women-owned businesses (WBEs), corporate members, and community allies. We'll showcase the stories, breakthroughs, and meaningful progress we've made, and what we know is possible for the future.
BE PART OF THE EXPERIENCE
Put your brand in the center of the celebration.
Join us as an Impact Awards Luncheon sponsor for a distinctive brand opportunity that begins now, with editorial and social visibility in the months leading up to the luncheon.
Explore the sponsor packages and find the opportunity that fits your brand best.
CELEBRATE A YEAR OF SYNERGY IN ACTION
The Impact Awards celebrate the WBEs, leaders, and partners creating change across our ecosystem. Each award recognizes a different kind of impact, from business growth and innovation, to advocacy, collaboration, and long-term commitment.
2026 Impact Awards Accepting Nominations:
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WBE Star: Impact through leadership, service, and influence.
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Corporation of the Year: Impact through sustained commitment and meaningful engagement.
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Advocate of the Year: Impact through championing access and opportunity.
*One winner will be selected per region for each award category. Self-nominations are welcome for all categories.
2026 Impact Honors:
Selected by WBEC NY DMV based on year-round performance, engagement, and impact.
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WBE Emerging 10: Impact through unstoppable momentum.
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Champion Circle Honorees: Impact through purposeful partnership.
- WBE FORUM Leader of the Year: lmpact through regional connection.
2026 Distinguished Impact Awards:
Selected by WBEC NY DMV to acknowledge exceptional leadership, partnership, and lasting contribution to the network.
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President’s Award: Impact through collaborative leadership.
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Marsha Firestone Award: Impact through systemic change.
Nominations are now open. Apply by July 15.
Read more about the awards categories, eligibility, and nomination criteria.
JOIN OUR MARKETPLACE!
Bring your best pitch and be ready to sell.
The Marketplace offers a direct view into the products, services, and capabilities of WBEs across both sister regions.
Put your business in front of the right people.
- Make high-value connections: Meet buyers, corporate partners, peer WBEs, and potential collaborators who want to learn what you offer.
- Show you’re opportunity-ready: Position your business as credible and prepared within a trusted entrepreneurial ecosystem.
- Turn conversations into next steps: Use feedback, referrals, and new relationships to strengthen your positioning and open doors for future business.
Interested in showcasing your business? Contact dparker@wbecnydmv.org.
Please note: Per hotel policy, no outside food or beverage items that are part of the Marketplace may be consumed in the hotel, and no outside alcohol is permitted on property.
2025 Program Highlights
Get a sense of what’s in store by revisiting last year’s Program Book