Nominations open for 2026 40 Under 40 Queensland as program announces two new awards
Nominations are now open for the 2026 program as it returns to shine a spotlight on the state’s most dynamic young business leaders, innovators and changemakers under the age of 40.
Now a firmly established fixture on the Queensland business calendar, the InDaily 40 Under 40 Awards celebrate the entrepreneurs and professionals shaping the state’s economic and social future – from fast-growing start-ups and family enterprises to purpose-driven organisations and emerging industry disruptors.
This year’s program will feature nine awards in total, including two new additions designed to reflect the evolving priorities of Queensland’s business and community landscape.
The first, the Emerging Industries Award, has been introduced in partnership with Piper Alderman to ensure consistency across national 40 Under 40 programs. It recognises individuals operating in high-growth or future-focused sectors, from advanced manufacturing and digital technologies to clean energy, biotech and new service models redefining traditional industries.
The second new category, the Social Impact Award, has been developed in collaboration with the Children’s Hospital Foundation to better align with organisations and leaders driving measurable social change. It will celebrate those using business as a force for good – whether through philanthropy, social enterprise, community innovation or purpose-led commercial models.
Together, the expanded awards reflect a broader understanding of success: not just financial achievement but influence, leadership, innovation and contribution.
For judging chair Sarah Smith, the evolution mirrors what leadership looks like in Queensland today.
In her day-to-day role leading start-up growth and investment within the Queensland Government, Smith works directly with founders building the next generation of innovative businesses. She also serves as head of Brisbane for 10×10 Philanthropy, helping back not-for-profits driving social change.
“This is a unique platform to celebrate the achievements of young leaders who are shaping the future of our state,” Smith says.
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Now in her third year with the program and second as chair of the judging panel, Smith says the calibre and diversity of candidates continues to impress.
“What I enjoy most is hearing the stories behind the nominees’ achievements. Each candidate brings a unique perspective, and their journeys are often filled with challenges, creativity and determination.”
That diversity is one of the program’s defining strengths. Queensland’s under-40 leaders are no longer defined by one sector or one type of success story. They are building companies, transforming industries, creating jobs and, in many cases, tackling some of the state’s biggest challenges at the same time.
The program has become a significant talent pipeline, with alumni going on to found high-growth companies, lead national organisations, scale social enterprises and take on senior leadership roles across the private and public sectors.
For many, inclusion in the list has served as a catalyst for opportunity, opening doors to investment conversations, strategic partnerships, board appointments and media exposure that might otherwise have taken years to develop.
“Winning a 40 Under 40 Award is a significant milestone,” Smith says.
“It provides recognition for the hard work and dedication these individuals have invested in their careers and causes. Beyond the personal achievement, it raises their profile, connects them with like-minded peers and offers a platform to amplify their impact.”
Previous winners continue to demonstrate that long-term value.
In the past 12 months alone, several Queensland alumni have featured prominently in national business and innovation conversations – from Deejay Egan’s continued expansion of a 650-strong social enterprise workforce through DCC Industry Group, to Saara Jamieson’s breakthrough in men’s health innovation with Cool Beans Underwear.
Others, including Cosmic Group’s Matt Crossan and DISSH’s Lucy Henry-Hicks, have been recognised for scaling sustainability-driven and technology-enabled businesses, while Caitlin McConnel has continued to lead innovation in regional agriculture.
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Smith points to 2024 First Among Equals winner Kristen Souvlis of Like a Photon as one standout. “Her rawness, realness, hustle, humbleness and heart shines through wherever she goes,” she says.
For this year’s entrants, Smith says judges will be looking beyond balance sheets and business growth. “We’re looking for individuals who demonstrate exceptional leadership, innovation and a commitment to making a positive impact,” she says.
“It’s not just about professional success. We’re interested in how candidates have contributed to their communities, inspired others and shown resilience in the face of challenges.”
Authenticity and purpose are often what separates strong applications from exceptional ones.
“I’d love to see candidates who are not only excelling in their fields but are also thinking about how they can contribute to the broader community,” Smith says. “People who make time to give back always stand out.”
Nominations are open to individuals across all industries, including business, health, education, construction, finance, creative industries, technology, agriculture and the not-for-profit sector. Nominees can self-submit or be nominated by colleagues, peers or organisations.
Judging will assess not only professional achievement but leadership capability, innovation, community contribution and future potential, with the expanded awards structure ensuring recognition of both established excellence and emerging impact.
Winners and finalists will be celebrated at the 2026 40 Under 40 Queensland event, bringing together leaders from across the state’s business, government and innovation sectors.
For those shortlisted, the experience often extends far beyond the night itself, offering visibility across media and industry networks, opportunities for profiling and connections that can accelerate growth.
Smith’s advice for anyone considering entering is simple: “Just go for it.”
Nominations for the 2026 program are now open, with organisers encouraging early submissions as interest continues to grow year on year.
For Queensland’s next generation of leaders, the message is clear: this is your moment to be seen, supported and celebrated.
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