Seeking Northeast Florida’s Top Entrepreneurs: A Call for Nominations

Introduction

On March 21, 2024, the Jacksonville Daily Record proudly presents its fifth annual recognition of Northeast Florida’s outstanding entrepreneurs. This prestigious program honors individuals who have built thriving businesses, demonstrated consistent growth, and made significant contributions to the regional economy. This year, nine exceptional entrepreneurs across three categories will be celebrated, along with a special recognition for a seasoned business leader as the “Legend.”

Honoring Entrepreneurial Excellence

The Top Entrepreneurs program recognizes business owners who have exhibited exceptional leadership, innovation, and resilience in their respective industries. We seek to acknowledge entrepreneurs who have:

  • Established and grown successful enterprises from the ground up.
  • Demonstrated consistent revenue growth and profitability over multiple years.
  • Successfully navigated market challenges and economic uncertainties to achieve success.

Nomination Categories

Entrepreneurs are invited to submit nominations in three revenue-based categories:

  • Up to $2 million in annual revenue
  • $2 million to $15 million in annual revenue
  • More than $15 million in annual revenue

Eligibility Criteria

To be considered for the Top Entrepreneurs recognition, nominees must meet the following criteria:

  • Current owner-shareholder and CEO of the business.
  • Company headquartered within the five-county area of Baker, Clay, Duval, Nassau, and St. Johns counties.
  • Business must be at least three years old.
  • Willingness to share annual revenue for 2023, 2022, and 2021, provide employee count data for the past three years, and participate in an interview and photoshoot.
  • Previous winners are not eligible for consideration this year.

Nomination Process

Entrepreneurs are encouraged to complete the nomination form available at [Provide Nomination Form Link]. Self-nominations are welcome, but third-party nominations may not be accepted unless the entrepreneur is aware of and agrees to the nomination. The deadline for submitting nominations is Thursday, February 15, 2024.

Selection Process

A distinguished panel of judges, comprising business leaders, industry experts, and community stakeholders, will evaluate the nominations based on the following criteria:

  • Entrepreneurial spirit and leadership
  • Business growth and profitability
  • Innovation and creativity
  • Community involvement and impact
  • Overcoming challenges and obstacles

Recognition and Celebration

The nine Top Entrepreneurs and the Legend will be featured in a special section of the Jacksonville Daily Record on March 21, 2024. They will be recognized for their outstanding achievements at an exclusive awards ceremony, where they will receive a prestigious award and have the opportunity to share their inspiring stories with the business community.

Honoring the Legend

In addition to recognizing the Top Entrepreneurs, the program will also honor a seasoned business owner as the “Legend.” This award celebrates an individual who has dedicated decades of their life to building and sustaining a successful enterprise, serving as an inspiration to aspiring entrepreneurs and contributing significantly to the region’s economic vitality.

Celebrating Entrepreneurial Success

The Top Entrepreneurs program is a testament to the exceptional talent and dedication of Northeast Florida’s business leaders. By honoring these individuals, we aim to inspire others to pursue their entrepreneurial dreams, foster a vibrant business environment, and celebrate the contributions of those who drive economic growth and innovation in our region.

Additional Information

For more information about the Top Entrepreneurs program, please contact Editor Karen Brune Mathis at [Provide Email Address]. To inquire about advertising opportunities in the special edition, please call 904-356-2466 or email [Provide Email Address].

Celebrating Entrepreneurial Excellence: Join Us!

We invite you to participate in this prestigious program and nominate deserving entrepreneurs who have made a profound impact on Northeast Florida’s business landscape. Together, let’s celebrate the spirit of innovation and entrepreneurship that fuels our region’s economic success.