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2026 Greater Rochester Chamber Inclusive Leadership Award Application

The Inclusive Leadership Award honors organizations that create meaningful, lasting changes in workplace culture, places where employees feel seen, heard, and valued. These organizations lead with purpose, setting the standard for inclusive leadership that positively impacts both their workplaces and the Greater Rochester community.
Who Should Apply?
We invite organizations that exemplify the following qualities to apply:

1. A Culture of Belonging
People from all backgrounds feel respected, heard, and supported.

2. Fair & Equitable Practices
Hiring, development, advancement, and recognition are accessible and fair across the organization.

3. Empowered & Engaged Teams
Employees have meaningful opportunities to contribute, grow, and collaborate across differences.

4. Community Connection
The organization extends its commitment to inclusion beyond its walls through partnerships and positive local impact.
Any internal representative with a strong understanding of their organization’s culture can apply. A robust application should highlight specific practices and initiatives that showcase workplace commitment, employee empowerment, significant leadership actions, and community impact.

Important to Note: While we appreciate the vital role of consultants in fostering inclusive and positive workplace cultures, this award is specifically designed to honor organizations for driving change within their workplaces and making a meaningful impact in the broader community.
Click HERE to view the Award Criteria.
For each of the award criteria, please share a demonstration of these best practices, provide concrete examples, and include any relevant evaluation. 

Max 500 words. Please ensure your answers only address the specific criteria listed, as this will assist in the judging process.

Click 
HERE for FAQs.

Application Deadline: Friday, July 17, 2026 at 12:00pm (Noon)
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Full Name * Title * Company * Business Email * Phone Number *

Organizations that create workplaces where people from all backgrounds feel respected, heard, and supported. This includes fostering trust, encouraging open dialogue, and ensuring employees experience a genuine sense of belonging.
Maximum 500 words.
Please ensure your responses focus solely on the specific criteria listed above, as this will assist in the judging and evaluation process.


Organizations that demonstrate fairness and consistency in hiring, development, advancement, and recognition practices. This includes providing equitable access to opportunities and maintaining transparency in workplace processes.
Maximum 500 words.
Please ensure your responses focus solely on the specific criteria listed above, as this will assist in the judging and evaluation process.

Organizations that provide meaningful opportunities for employees to contribute, collaborate, and grow. This includes supporting professional development, encouraging diverse perspectives, and fostering innovation across teams.
Maximum 500 words.
Please ensure your responses focus solely on the specific criteria listed above, as this will assist in the judging and evaluation process.


Organizations that extend their commitment beyond the workplace by supporting community partnerships, encouraging employee involvement, and demonstrating positive impact in the Greater Rochester region.
Maximum 500 words.
Please ensure your responses focus solely on the specific criteria listed above, as this will assist in the judging and evaluation process.

You may attach Up to 3 recommendation letters - Optional

20MB max

20MB max

20MB max
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