Our annual Brilliant Business Ideas list spotlights women entrepreneurs who are just starting out – but who know their work is going to change (maybe even save) the world.
Does that sound like you?
Before March 22, we want to hear from women business owners who recently launched (within the past two years) and are now growing exciting ventures. We are open to all sorts of clever businesses, but are particularly interested in ones that approach our shared problems – and drive conversations about them – in new ways. Startups that offer solutions to concerns of all sizes, or perhaps simply offer us a fun respite in trying times. If it’s innovative and unique, we want to know all about it!
Apply Today!
Final picks for our 2026 Brilliant Business Ideas list will be recognized later this spring on our site, shared with our media partners, and potentially featured in video profiles. Here is last year’s list of enterprising visionaries.
Intrigued so far? Check out our full list of guidelines:
- You must nominate yourself.
- You must complete the entire form in order to be considered.
- Your company must have been in operation for, at most, 2 years.
- You must be fully formed and launched before applying.
- Yours may be a for-profit business, nonprofit or social enterprise.
- You cannot be a franchisee, independent distributor or sales representative.
- You may reside anywhere in the world.
- If you have male co-owners, you must be the primary leader of the company.
Note: If you’ve filled out the latter sections of our form within the past 6 months, either as part of the 1,000+ Stories campaign or for our Gift Guide, you don’t need to fill it out again — just make sure to answer the new questions in the top sections of the application. If it’s been longer than 6 months, please complete the entire questionnaire again so we have up-to-date information.
After you finish your application, be sure to tell your friends, family, colleagues and networks about this opportunity! Encourage others to apply by sharing this page via email, Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.
Any questions? Please email [email protected].