Karen Bass Champion of Justice and Equity Award *
Focuses on transformative impacts in communities for justice and equity. It recognizes individuals or companies that have made a significant impact on their communities by dismantling barriers, creating opportunities and promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Purpose: Honors individuals and organizations dedicated to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Qualities: Works to make transformative impacts on communities for a more just and equitable society.
Antonio Villaraigosa Diverse Business Advocate Award *
Honors individuals or companies that have worked to advance the interests of small businesses owned by marginalized and underrepresented groups. This could include lobbying for policies that support these businesses, providing resources and training, or creating networking opportunities.
Purpose: Recognizes policymakers or leaders championing small businesses, especially those owned by marginalized groups.
Qualities: Focuses efforts to break down barriers, foster innovation, and create opportunities for an inclusive economy.
Tom Bradley Community Partnership Award*
Highlights collaboration and partnerships between small, diverse and historically underutilized businesses and local communities. This could involve working on projects that benefit both the businesses and the community, such as job training programs, environmental initiatives, or public art projects.
Purpose: Honors individuals and companies exemplifying collaboration between diverse businesses and communities.
Qualities: Celebrates visionary partnerships that build bridges and open doors to prosperity and unity.
Paul R. Williams Lifetime Achievement Award
It is a prestigious lifetime achievement recognition for advancing diversity and inclusion. It recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to diversity, equity, and inclusion in their fields. This could include breaking down barriers in their industry, mentoring younger professionals, or advocating for social justice
Purpose: Celebrates individuals with a lifelong commitment to advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion in their own field.
Qualities: Recognizes trailblazers who have made extraordinary contributions to breaking down barriers and promoting social justice.
The Bessie Coleman Emerging Leader Award
Honors the legacy of Bessie Coleman, the first African American and Native American woman to earn a pilot's license, by recognizing rising leaders who are making significant strides in their fields.
Purpose: Celebrate individuals who, like Coleman, demonstrate exceptional courage, determination, and a commitment to breaking barriers.
Qualities: Those who are poised to lead future generations, inspiring others through their vision, resilience, and innovative spirit as they pave the way for greater diversity and inclusion in their industries.
The Romana Acosta Bañuelos Entrepreneurial Leadership Award
Honors the remarkable legacy of Romana Acosta Bañuelos, the first Latina Treasurer of the United States and a successful small business owner. She co-founded and served as the President of the Pan American National Bank to provide financial access and pave the way to future generations of minority entrepreneurs.
Purpose: Celebrates small business owners who exemplify Bañuelos’ spirit of entrepreneurship, perseverance, and dedication to community empowerment. Individuals who have built thriving businesses from the ground up, overcoming obstacles and creating opportunities for others.
Qualities: Recipients of this award reflect Bañuelos' commitment to economic advancement and her trailblazing role in championing diversity and inclusion in the business world.
Previous award winners cannot be nominated in the same category for at least five years.