40 Under 40 Nominations 2026: Submit Your Rising Stars

SPRINGFIELD – Nominations are now being accepted for the 20th annual 40 Under Forty awards,recognizing rising stars in Western Massachusetts.

Celebrating western massachusetts’ Young Leaders

The programme honors young professionals for both their career success and dedication to the community.

The 40 Under Forty program, launched in 2007, spotlights individuals who are not only excelling in their fields but also giving back to the region.

The 40 Under Forty program began in 2007 with the goal of recognizing young professionals in the region, celebrating not only their career achievements but also their commitment to community service. Winners represent a diverse range of industries, from those building upon established businesses to entrepreneurs forging new paths. Nominators play a crucial role in identifying these deserving individuals across the four counties of Western Mass.

Did you know? – The 40 Under Forty program specifically focuses on professionals within the four counties of Western Massachusetts: Hampden, Hampshire, Franklin, and Berkshire.

The annual 40 Under Forty awards, presented by BusinessWest, were established to identify and celebrate the region’s moast promising young leaders. The program aims to highlight individuals who demonstrate exceptional professional achievement, leadership qualities, and a strong commitment to community involvement. Since its inception,the program has recognized over 760 individuals who have made significant contributions to Western Massachusetts.

Pro tip – Strong nominations detail specific accomplishments and quantifiable results. Focus on the nominee’s impact, not just their job description.

Nominations for the 2026 class are currently open and will be accepted through Thursday, March 5. Individuals can be nominated by colleagues, supervisors, mentors, or anyone familiar with their work and community contributions. The nomination process involves submitting a detailed online form outlining the nominee’s professional achievements, leadership skills, and community involvement.A selection committee comprised of past honorees and business leaders will review the nominations and select the 40 finalists.

Natasha Mercado-Santana, Marketing and Events Manager at BusinessWest, is the primary contact for questions regarding the nomination process. She can be reached at [phone], ext. 100,or via email at [email protected]. The winners will be announced at a gala event in June 2026, where their accomplishments will be celebrated.

Reader question – What qualities, beyond professional success, do you believe are most significant for young leaders in western Massachusetts?

The 40 Under Forty program continues to be a vital platform for recognizing and celebrating the next generation of leaders in Western Massachusetts, fostering a culture of excellence and community engagement.