Influential Women in Business

Leadership takes many forms.

Each year, Business Report’s Influential Women in Business recognizes accomplished women whose leadership, professional achievements and community impact are helping shape the Capital Region. Honorees lead companies, nonprofits, public agencies and institutions of all kinds—united by influence that extends beyond a title and a record of meaningful change.

Honorees are profiled in the May edition of Business Report and recognized at the annual Influential Women in Business luncheon, where they share their leadership experiences and perspectives.

What is Influential Women in Business?

It is Business Report’s annual recognition of accomplished Capital Region women whose professional leadership and community impact distinguish them in their fields.

Who is eligible?

Professional women living and working in Louisiana’s Capital Region are eligible.

What makes an Influential Woman in Business?

Candidates should be influential in their business or organization; have a strong reputation based on experience, leadership and integrity; demonstrate clear professional and/or community accomplishments; and have built recognizable and lasting initiatives or change. Honorees may come from business, government, nonprofits or other professional fields.

What information do I need to submit a nomination?

You should have the nominee’s contact and job information, a clear explanation of her influence professionally and/or in the community, and basic résumé information including specific accomplishments and community involvement.

What makes a strong nomination?

Be specific and personal. Detailed information about the nominee’s character, credentials, accomplishments and impact is more useful than general praise.

Do multiple nominations improve someone’s chances?

No. Influential Women in Business is not a popularity contest. A compelling single nomination is sufficient. Testimonials from several people may be included in one submission.

Can multiple women from one organization be nominated?

Yes, although only one nominee from a single entity will be chosen in a given year.

How are honorees selected?

Selections are based in part on input from a confidential panel of more than 50 community leaders, with the goal of recognizing a diverse cross-section of the Capital Region professional community.

Can someone receive the honor more than once?

No. Influential Women in Business is a one-time honor.

How do I know if someone has already been honored?

Review the list of past Influential Women in Business honorees before submitting a nomination.

What is required of selected honorees?

Honorees must make themselves available for an interview and photo shoot and should be able to attend the annual celebration.

How must nominations be submitted?

Nominations must be submitted through the official online form. Email, fax, postal mail and hand-delivered nominations are not accepted.

Can I save my form and finish later?

No. The nomination form must currently be completed in one session. Drafting longer responses separately before beginning is recommended.

When are honorees announced?

Honorees are traditionally announced in the spring, profiled in May and recognized at the annual luncheon.

When is the event held?

The Influential Women in Business luncheon is traditionally held in May.

How does it relate to the Women’s Leadership Symposium?

The Women’s Leadership Symposium is a separate professional-development program held that morning. The Influential Women in Business luncheon follows and focuses on recognition of the annual honorees.

What happens during the luncheon?

The luncheon celebrates that year’s honorees and typically provides an opportunity to hear directly from them about their careers, leadership and experiences.

Who attends?

Executives, professionals, entrepreneurs, community leaders, colleagues and supporters of the honorees, as well as attendees from the morning symposium.

Can I attend if I don’t know an honoree?

Absolutely. The luncheon is open to the broader community.

Where can I read about the honorees?

Honorees are profiled in the May edition of Business Report and online.

What should I wear?

Business or polished business-casual attire is appropriate.

Are sponsorship opportunities available?

Yes.