All your questions answered

About Crain’s Women of Influence: 

Crain's Women of Influence celebrates and elevates visionary women leaders who drive progress across diverse sectors. We spotlight their achievements, from community impact to pioneering transitions and investments. Our recognition honors those who defy conventions and inspires future generations. By highlighting their leadership, innovation, and dedication to community, Crain fosters an inclusive business environment where every voice contributes to a brighter future. 

This program was previously published as Women of Note. 

Who’s eligible? 

• Nominees must work in Northeast Ohio.
• Nomination should showcase career professional achievements and civic engagement.
• Please provide details as available (performance metrics, awards received and/or press).
• Please highlight involvement in any of the following: community and/or philanthropic activities, mentoring programs, diversity and inclusion initiatives.

What is the deadline for nomination? Jan. 31, 2025 at 11:59 p.m. EST

I was recognized as a Woman of Influence, can I be on the list again? 

No, Women of Influence is a one-time honor. Check out Crain's 40 Under 40, 20 In Their 20s, Best Places to Work or Notables as opportunities for future recognition. 

How do I submit a nomination? 

We only accept nominations with the online form. We do not accept nominations via phone, email, mail or fax. We need the detailed information called for in the online nomination form.  

• To get started: Click the nomination link and sign into your account. If you do not have an account, you will be asked to create one before you can proceed with the nomination form. We recommend using Chrome or Firefox web browsers to complete your application. 
• To finish an incomplete nomination: Sign into your account and choose either the "incomplete" or "in progress" option as shown on the next page. Then, select "edit" on the following page to complete the previously started submission.

How much does it cost to submit? 

The nomination fee is $25. Nomination fees may be paid via credit card (Visa, MasterCard, American Express). Nomination fees are non-refundable.   

Does it matter who submits the nomination? 

You can nominate yourself, a client, a family member, your boss, an employee or an acquaintance. The most important thing is that you state a clear, business-oriented reason for the nomination. It is helpful for a nominator to be in a position to be objective, but no one is disqualified based on who did the nominating.  

Can you send me a copy of my nomination form and invoice? 

To download a copy of your completed nomination and/or invoice, please follow the steps below:

• Download a copy of your nomination: Sign into your account and click "complete" under "my applications." On the next screen, you can view or print your completed nominations. 
• Download a copy of your invoice: Sign into your account and click "invoices" under "my applications." On the next screen, please select the invoice you would like to view. After you select the invoice, you may print only your invoice or print the invoice plus nomination submitted. 

What is the process like? 

After we receive nominations, Crain’s editors hold a series of meetings to determine who will be chosen. We strive to come up with a diverse list that represents a broad spectrum of the fields, companies and organizations we cover.  

When will honorees be notified? 

Women of Influence honorees will be notified approximately 5 weeks before publication day. Unfortunately, we are unable to provide status updates until congratulatory letters are sent.  

What is required of those who are selected? 

Women of Influence honorees participate in an interview and portrait session with Crain’s editorial team. Declining either of these requests will disqualify the candidate.  

Can you provide feedback on why I was not selected? 

Unfortunately, we cannot provide individual feedback on why you were not picked. It likely won't be for one reason and for reasons related to presenting a diverse range of professions and industries. 

Check out our latest Women of Influence class & reach out to Crain's Recognitions Team with additional questions. 

Get alerted when Women of Influence publishes and learn more about the Northeast Ohio Business scene by subscribing to Crain's Cleveland Business newsletters and updating your email preferences here.

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