The Clock is Ticking: Last Call for Nominations to the 2026 GeekWire Awards!

If you’re plugged into the Pacific Northwest’s thriving tech scene, you already know that the GeekWire Awards are the region’s most anticipated celebration of innovation, leadership, and community impact. But here’s the thing—time is running out to make sure your favorite entrepreneurs, startups, and game-changing technologies get the recognition they deserve. Community nominations close this Wednesday, February 25, and trust us, you don’t want to miss this chance to spotlight the best and brightest in tech.

Why the GeekWire Awards Matter

The GeekWire Awards aren’t just another industry event—they’re a cultural touchstone for the Pacific Northwest’s tech ecosystem. From the bustling streets of Seattle to the innovation hubs of Portland and Vancouver, this annual celebration brings together the movers, shakers, and visionaries who are shaping the future. And this year’s event, set for May 7 at Showbox SoDo, promises to be bigger and better than ever.

Imagine a night filled with a VIP reception, a sit-down dinner, and entertainment that keeps the energy high. Tickets are selling fast, and early-bird pricing is available now for half and full tables. If you’re thinking about attending, don’t wait—contact [email protected] to lock in your spot.

How to Nominate (and Why It’s So Important)

Here’s the deal: nominations are open across 12 categories, and the Pacific Northwest tech community has the power to decide who makes the cut. Whether it’s a groundbreaking AI innovation, a startup that’s disrupting an entire industry, or a leader who’s inspiring the next generation, your nomination could be the difference between recognition and obscurity.

The categories are as diverse as the region’s tech landscape:

Leadership and Business

• CEO of the Year – Recognizing the visionary leaders driving their companies to new heights.
• Young Entrepreneur of the Year – Celebrating the rising stars under 35 who are making waves.
• Next Tech Titan – Honoring the up-and-coming leaders poised to shape the future.
• Workplace of the Year – Highlighting companies that are redefining what it means to work in tech.

Innovation

• Innovation of the Year – For the most groundbreaking ideas and solutions.
• AI Innovation of the Year – Recognizing the breakthroughs in artificial intelligence.
• Health Innovation of the Year – Celebrating advancements that are transforming healthcare.
• Sustainable Innovation of the Year – Honoring solutions that are making the world a greener place.
• Hardware/Robotics/Physical AI of the Year – For the cutting-edge tech that’s pushing the boundaries of what’s possible.

Impact

• Startup of the Year – Recognizing the most promising new companies.
• Deal of the Year – Celebrating the most impactful mergers, acquisitions, and partnerships.
• STEM Educator of the Year – Honoring the educators who are inspiring the next generation of innovators.

Who Can Nominate?

Here’s the best part: anyone can submit a nomination. Whether you’re a GeekWire reader, a startup founder, or just someone who’s passionate about tech, your voice matters. And yes, self-nominations are allowed—so don’t be shy! Just remember, one nomination is as good as 20, so there’s no need to spam the ballot box. Also, past winners aren’t eligible in the same category, so it’s all about fresh faces and new ideas.

What Happens Next?

Once nominations close, a panel of judges will narrow down the field to five finalists per category. Then, the community takes over. From March 16 to April 17, GeekWire readers will have the chance to vote for their favorites. The winners will be announced live on stage at the awards ceremony, where they’ll receive a coveted robot trophy—a symbol of their impact and innovation.

The Power of Community

The GeekWire Awards are more than just an event—they’re a celebration of the Pacific Northwest’s vibrant tech community. As the 2025 awards showed, this community is “alive and well,” and the 2026 event is set to prove it once again. From the startups that are disrupting industries to the educators who are shaping the future, this is your chance to shine a spotlight on the people and ideas that are making a difference.

Join the Celebration

The 2026 GeekWire Awards are proudly presented by Astound Business Solutions, with gold sponsors including JLL, Baird, First Tech, Amazon Sustainability, BECU, and Wilson Sonsini. These sponsors are helping to make this event possible, and their support underscores the importance of recognizing and celebrating innovation in the Pacific Northwest.

So, what are you waiting for? Submit your nomination today and be part of the conversation that’s shaping the future of tech. Whether you’re nominating a colleague, a friend, or even yourself, your voice matters. Let’s make sure the Pacific Northwest’s tech community gets the recognition it deserves.

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