Forty Under 40

Save the Date

May 2025

Virginia Business will host our first 40 under 40 event in May 2025. This event recognizes and brings together the future leaders of Virginia. These individuals will be honored for achieving success in their careers and giving back in a meaningful way to the Virginia community.

What is the nomination process and the steps to take?

Once the online nomination form is completed an automated email will be sent to the individual nominated (the email address entered in the “Nominee Email” field) and a submission receipt will be sent to the email placed in the “Nominator’s Email” field.

In order for the nominee to continue with the process they must fill out the application form by the application deadline listed in the automated email and on the corresponding event landing page.

How can I be considered for the Forty Under 40 award?

In order to be considered, candidates:

– Must demonstrate significant professional accomplishment within your category as well as strong civic commitment in our community;

– Must be employed in Virginia

– Must be 39 years of age or younger as of Oct. 31, 2025; and

– May be self-nominated or nominated by another person.

While anyone can nominate, we recommend nominations come from a senior leader in the candidate’s organization or another member of the nonprofit board the candidate sits on. It is then required that the nominee go through the entire application process, please see above response for more details on that.

Who are the judges and what are they looking for when selecting the Forty Under 40?

A panel of judges including Virginia Business editors will select the 2025 Forty Under 40 honorees. It is essential that the candidate demonstrate professional excellence as well as making significant contributions in the community. It is helpful to have at least one letter of recommendation from someone that can speak to both of these achievements.

Can I save the nomination or application forms while I’m working on them?

Unfortunately, at this time you cannot, but we’re working to fix that. In the meantime, we suggest either filling out the forms on a separate sheet of paper and/Word Doc first or be prepared to spend some time in the form.

If I’m an honoree, do I need to purchase a ticket?

You do not need to purchase a ticket for yourself if you are an honoree. All other attendees must purchase a ticket. Please, note that attendance for all Virginia Business is limited based on venue. Honorees and sponsors are guaranteed tickets. Individual tickets will only go on sale if space is available after sponsorship deadlines.

What is included in sponsorship packages?

Sponsorship opportunities to include a table for your guests, multimedia marketing, logo usage and much more depending on the level your company selects. For more sponsorship information and benefits please contact your account manager or email [email protected]

Can I buy an ad in the publication?

Please contact your advertising account manager or Jennifer Waldbauer at [email protected] to place an add or purchase a sponsorship package.

We offer a full suite of products and services to support your business marketing needs ranging from logo licensing to electronic article reprints to plaques and beyond!

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To learn more about the only official, approved way to get content licensing and reprints, please visit EVG Media.

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