INTRODUCTION
The BOBB Global 100 Leading Entrepreneurs will identify 100 Leading Entrepreneurs worldwide to celebrate their business accomplishments and civic contributions. Additionally, they will connect to build valuable relationships and collaborations to increase their business success and growth. This overview outlines the transparent, fair, and impartial process for nominating individuals to be considered for recognition as a BOBB Global 100 Leading Entrepreneur and participation as a cohort in the BPM Global Leadership Collective.
The recognition of the BOBB Global 100 Leading Entrepreneurs is integral to Black Entrepreneurs Month. BPM will select 100 Leading Entrepreneurs worldwide for this recognition, honoring Black entrepreneurs who exemplify exceptional leadership, innovation, and resilience in the business world. These entrepreneurs are visionary leaders who have built successful companies that generate significant revenue, create jobs, drive economic growth, and impact their communities positively. They scale their businesses, navigate complex markets, and consistently achieve year-over-year growth.
We celebrate these honorees' financial accomplishments and commitment to breaking barriers and setting new industry standards They embody the spirit of entrepreneurship through their strategic vision, innovative thinking, and dedication to overcoming challenges that often accompany the entrepreneurial journey, especially for Black business leaders.
These entrepreneurs use their platforms to inspire, mentor, and uplift others, contributing to the broader narrative of diversity, equity, and inclusion in business. This recognition honors established industry veterans or emerging disruptors who lead with purpose, transform industries, and leave a legacy that transcends business success. This recognition is based on entrepreneurial merit and is NOT fee-based.
CALL FOR NOMINATIONS
Annually, the ICABA World Network will make a public call for nominations through individuals, professional organizations, industry publications, media, and relevant social networks.
• Individuals or organizations can make nominations, and self-nominations are also accepted.
• Individuals or organizations can make multiple nominations.
CRITERIA
Leading Black entrepreneurs worldwide are identified and selected based on robust criteria highlighting their business acumen, growth trajectory, and market influence. First and foremost, the company's revenue is a crucial indicator of financial success and market dominance, reflecting its ability to generate substantial income and sustain profitability. A significant and diverse employee base further underscores the entrepreneur's capability to scale operations effectively, manage complex organizational structures, and create employment opportunities on a large scale.
Year-to-year growth is another critical measure, showcasing an entrepreneur's capacity to drive consistent expansion in revenue, market share, and operational size. This growth demonstrates resilience, strategic foresight, and the ability to adapt to changing market conditions. The scale of their operations, particularly their ability to penetrate and thrive in the marketplace, sets these entrepreneurs apart.
Additionally, leading entrepreneurs often distinguish themselves through innovation and industry disruption. Their companies are not only successful but also set trends, influence market dynamics, and introduce new products, services, or business models that reshape industries. Finally, a commitment to sustainability and corporate social responsibility elevates their status, reflecting an understanding that leadership extends beyond profit to include ethical practices and a positive societal impact.
Together, these criteria ensure that selected entrepreneurs are recognized not just for their financial achievements but also for their broader contributions to the business world and society at large.
There are two (2) categories of recognition for the BOBB Global 100 Leading Entrepreneurs:
Luminary Entrepreneurs (Over 40)
Luminary Entrepreneurs are seasoned trailblazers who have made a profound and lasting impact on their industries. These honorees, over the age of 40, have built successful companies that demonstrate sustained revenue, large-scale operations, and significant market influence. They are recognized not only for their business acumen but also for their roles as mentors, thought leaders, and change-makers. Luminaries are often pioneers who have overcome significant challenges, set new industry standards, and opened doors for future generations. They have established a legacy of visionary leadership, long-term growth, and a commitment to empowering others through mentorship, philanthropy, and advocacy.
CRITERIA (cont.)
Emerging Entrepreneurs (Ages 25-40)
Emerging Entrepreneurs represent the dynamic, innovative next generation of business leaders recognized for their rapid growth, disruptive business models, and forward-thinking approaches that challenge traditional market norms. They are building impactful companies with strong year-over-year growth, scaling quickly in competitive industries, and demonstrating a capacity to influence global markets. Emerging Entrepreneurs are often at the forefront of technology, social enterprise, and sustainable business practices, embodying the future of entrepreneurial excellence. Their recognition celebrates their potential to become tomorrow's Luminaries and their contributions to shaping the new landscape of global business.
NOMINATION PROCESS & TIMELINE
• Submit a BOBB Global 100 Leading Entrepreneurs Nomination form by August 15, 2024
• Nominee accepts their nomination and submits a BOBB Global 100 Leading Entrepreneurs Nominee Profile form by September 11, 2024
• The BOBB Global 100 Leading Entrepreneurs Selection Team will review nominations and make the final selections for recognition
• Individuals may self-nominate
• Individuals may nominate multiple individuals
• Nominees will be informed of selections by September 20, 2024
• Honoree selections will be released to the public on October 1, 2024
RECOGNITION
• ICABA will showcase the BOBB Global 100 in profile posts on social media (LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter, TikTok and Instagram).
• Honorees receive peer and public recognition in the BOBB Global 100 Leading Entrepreneurs profile publication as one of the world's leading entrepreneurs.
• Recognition during ICABA Honors the BOBB Global 100 Leading Entrepreneurs event on Saturday, October 19, 2024, at 12:00 p.m.
RECOGNITION (cont.)
• Honorees receive complimentary VIP registration for select Black Professionals Month events and programs
• Honorees receive a complimentary one-year Leader membership ($595 value) in the ICABA World Network, the world's leading online ecosystem, assisting black entrepreneurs and entrepreneurs to succeed in their careers, businesses, and lifestyles.
• Eligibility for participation in the BPM Global Leadership Collective with other BOBB Global 100 Leading Entrepreneurs
Nomination Process
• Annually, ICABA issues a public call for nominations through the ICABA and BPM website, social media, partner organizations, industry publications, and relevant networks.
• Individuals or organizations can make nominations, and self-nominations are also accepted.
Nomination Requirements
• Nominations must be timely and include the nominee's full name, contact information, profession, company, title/position, and a compelling rationale for the nomination.
• Submissions should include a statement of the nominee's leadership qualities, professional achievements, innovation, community impact, and professional accomplishment.
• Nominees must self-identify ethnically as Black. If ethnicity questions arise regarding the validity of the nominee's self-identification, the BOBB Global 100 team will research publicly available information for confirmation.
• Nominees must accept their nomination and submit a nominee profile form promptly to be considered for recognition for BOBB Global 100 Leading Entrepreneurs.
Verification
• The BOBB Global 100 Leading Entrepreneurs Editorial team will verify the accuracy and authenticity of the information provided in the nominations.
• Nominees who submit incomplete or inaccurate nominations will not be considered.
Selection Committee
• The BOBB Global 100 Selection Team will consist of accomplished leaders, entrepreneurs, and subject matter experts from diverse industries and backgrounds.
• The BOBB Global 100 Selection Team will be independent and free from conflicts of interest.