Nominations are submitted by community members who have seen firsthand the positive influence of the nominees. Nominations will remain open until June 15, 2026 for the 2026 awards. Multiple nominations per category will be allowed.

Depending on the award, final selections are made either by a panel of local leaders who evaluate the scope, sustainability, and significance of each nominee’s impact or by community voting.

Winners for the Young Professional of the Year, Volunteer of the Year, and Community Champion Award will be chosen by a selection committee.

A selection committee narrow all nominations to a top 5 for the Corporate Giving Award, Hometown Hero Award, and New Business Award. Final winners for these three awards will be determined by community voting from July 24 – August 21, 2026.

Each award recipient is featured in a dedicated article in the December edition of Jackson Magazine, highlighting their story, achievements, and vision for Jackson’s future and celebrated at the Impact Awards Ceremony in December at Commonwealth Commerce Center.