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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:

  • Collaborative Culture: Foster environments where all employees feel valued and supported.
  • Employee Engagement: Promote well-being, growth, and engagement across teams.
  • Inclusive Practices: Encourage diverse perspectives in decision-making processes.
  • Community Leadership: Lead initiatives that enhance connections and success across departments.
  • Positive Impact: Demonstrate a lasting impact on local communities.

Any internal representative with a strong understanding of their organization’s culture and practices can apply. A strong application highlights specific practices and initiatives that demonstrate workplace commitment, empower employees, show meaningful leadership actions, and create impact in the community.

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)

Fields marked with an * are required.

Please verify that you have checked the “I'm not a robot” checkbox.

Full Name * Title * Company * Business Email * Phone Number *

Organizations that build an inclusive culture by:

  • Supporting fair hiring, retention, and advancement.
  • Encouraging dialogue and collaboration across diverse perspectives.
  • Creating an environment where every voice is respected.
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 empower employees through:

  • Mentorship, training, and development opportunities.
  • Initiatives that foster innovation and collaboration.
  • Intentional efforts to ensure all employees feel supported and connected.

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 where leaders:

  • Model inclusive behaviors and hold themselves accountable.
  • Allocate resources to strengthen workplace culture.
  • Invite diverse perspectives into decision-making 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 extend their inclusivity beyond the workplace by:

  • Partnering with and supporting community programs.
  • Encouraging employees to engage in community-building efforts.
  • Demonstrating a positive impact through outreach and initiatives.

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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