The Pinnacle Award
The Pinnacle Award recognizes an exceptional woman whose leadership, business achievements, community involvement, and commitment to creating inclusive environments have made a significant impact on the Greater Kingston region.
Presented as part of the Celebrating Women in Business event, this prestigious award honours a woman who exemplifies excellence in leadership, inspires others through mentorship and innovation, and contributes meaningfully to the growth and success of our business community.
The recipient of the inaugural Pinnacle Award will be recognized during the Celebrating Women in Business event on September 17, 2026.
Eligibility Requirements:
To be eligible for consideration, nominees must meet the following requirements:
- Nominee identifies as a woman.
- Nominee has owned, managed, or held a leadership position within a business or organization operating in the Greater Kingston area for a minimum of three years.
- If nominated by a third party, the nominee must approve and accept the nomination.
- Nominee must demonstrate leadership, business success, community impact, and a commitment to fostering inclusive environments.
Submission
Submissions will be evaluated by an independent panel of judges based on the following criteria:
Leadership & Business Excellence (40%)
Recognizes a leader who demonstrates outstanding business performance, innovation, vision, and organizational leadership.
Evaluation considerations include:
- Business growth and success
- Strategic leadership and innovation
- Employee engagement and workplace culture
- Customer and stakeholder impact
- Demonstrated leadership within the organization
Community Impact & Mentorship (30%)
Recognizes meaningful contributions that strengthen Kingston through volunteerism, mentorship, advocacy, and community leadership.
Evaluation considerations include:
- Volunteer and charitable involvement
- Leadership in community initiatives
- Mentorship and professional development of others
- Contributions to local economic development
- Support of community organizations and causes
Commitment to Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (30%)
Recognizes a leader who actively fosters diversity, advances equitable opportunities, and creates inclusive environments within their organization, industry, and community.
Evaluation considerations include:
- Creating a workplace culture where diverse perspectives are valued
- Promoting inclusive decision-making and collaboration
- Supporting equitable opportunities for growth and advancement
- Leading initiatives that foster accessibility, belonging, and respect
- Demonstrating accountability for inclusive leadership practices
- Championing inclusion within the broader business community
Nomination Period
June 22 – August 28, 2026
Award Presentation
September 17, 2026
Women in Business - The Pinnacle Award
Description
The Pinnacle Award recognizes an exceptional woman whose leadership, business achievements, community involvement, and commitment to creating inclusive environments have made a significant impact on the Greater Kingston region.
Presented as part of the Celebrating Women in Business event, this prestigious award honours a woman who exemplifies excellence in leadership, inspires others through mentorship and innovation, and contributes meaningfully to the growth and success of our business community.
The recipient of the inaugural Pinnacle Award will be recognized during the Celebrating Women in Business event on September 17, 2026.
Requirements
Eligibility Requirements:?
To be eligible for consideration, nominees must meet the following requirements:
- Nominee identifies as a woman.
- Nominee has owned, managed, or held a leadership position within a business or organization operating in the Greater Kingston area for a minimum of three years.
- If nominated by a third party, the nominee must approve and accept the nomination.
- Nominee must demonstrate leadership, business success, community impact, and a commitment to fostering inclusive environments.
Criteria
| Criterion | Weight |
|---|---|
| Leadership & Business Excellence | 40.0% |
| Community Impact & Mentorship | 30.0% |
| Commitment to Diversity, Equity & Inclusion | 30.0% |
