The 2026 Austin Black Business Journal & Community News Magazine Awards nominations are officially open, and we invite the Central Texas community to help us shine a light on Black Excellence.
Beginning January 2026, we will celebrate Austin’s everyday heroes—individuals, businesses, and organizations who are quietly and consistently making a meaningful impact. These are the leaders, innovators, and change-makers whose work often happens behind the scenes, yet improves our communities in powerful ways.
This is your opportunity to ensure their contributions are seen, valued, and celebrated.
Who Can Be Nominated?
Anyone who is selflessly working to make a difference—in their profession, their community, or in the lives of others—is eligible. The awards recognize outstanding achievements and meaningful contributions from:
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Individuals
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Businesses
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Organizations
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Nonprofits
If their work uplifts others and strengthens Central Texas, they deserve consideration.
Why Nominate Someone?
When you nominate someone, you do more than submit a name—you help tell a story of impact.
Nominations:
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Bring attention to good deeds and leadership
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Inspire others across the region to serve and lead
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Encourage nominees to continue and expand their work
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Publicly affirm that their efforts matter and are appreciated
Recognition has power. It builds momentum, pride, and community.
How the Selection Process Works
Once nominations close, a qualified review team will carefully evaluate all submissions using established criteria. Selected nominees will be honored at the 2026 Awards Reception, where excellence across industries and service areas will be celebrated.
How to Submit a Nomination
To nominate someone:
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Complete the online nomination form in full
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Submit during the nomination period: Deadline – March 2026
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Be specific—share clear examples and details explaining why your nominee deserves recognition
Thoughtful, detailed nominations help us fully understand and honor each nominee’s impact.
2026 Award Categories
Nominations are being accepted in the following categories:
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Black Professionals & Entrepreneurs
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Black Lawyers
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Most Influential Black Men & Women
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Black Doctors
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Diversity & Inclusion Champions
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Blacks in Tech / Millennials
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Blacks in Education
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Black-Owned Nonprofits
- 40 Under 40 Business Awards
Help Us Celebrate Black Excellence
Take a moment to uplift someone who inspires you—a friend, colleague, client, employee, employer, or organization whose work deserves recognition. Ask your friends to nominate your business.
Thank you for helping the Austin Black Business Journal & Community News Magazine honor excellence, leadership, and service across Central Texas. Your nomination helps ensure that important contributions never go unnoticed.
