What is Crain's Cleveland Business' 40 Under 40?
An annual special section to recognize 40 people under the age of 40 who have made an impact on Northeast Ohio's business and civic communities.

What are the qualifications for 40 Under 40?
Aside from being under the age of 40 as of the date of publication (Nov. 18, 2024), the key quality is that the individual has met with success in his or her career. We are looking for young professionals who have made a mark on Northeast Ohio's business community. In addition, we also want to see that they're involved — be it nonprofit organizations, volunteer groups or trade groups — in their communities.

When is the deadline for nominations? When is it published?
The deadline for nominations is May 24. On CrainsCleveland.com on Nov. 18, and in that day's print edition.

Who decides who will be in 40 Under 40?
A panel of Crain's editors.

How can I nominate someone for 40 Under 40?
The online nomination form. To get started, click the application link and sign into your account. If you do not have an account, you will be asked to create one before you can proceed with the nomination form. We recommend using Chrome or Firefox web browsers to complete your application. Note, your CrainsCleveland.com account is separate from an account you create for 40 Under 40 or any other Cleveland Business recognition program.

Can I just call you or send you an email with the name of the person I'd like to nominate?
No phone calls or emails, please. We need the detailed information called for in the online nomination form.

I want to nominate someone, but can I remain anonymous?
We do not share nominator information. We still do need to know who you are, though.

I want to nominate someone, but would it be better if someone higher up nominated her/him? Can I nominate a family member?
You can nominate yourself, a client, a family member, your boss, an employee or an acquaintance. The most important thing is that you state a clear, business-oriented reason for the nomination. It is helpful for a nominator to be in a position to be objective, but no one is disqualified based on who did the nominating.

In the nomination form, you ask why the person should be nominated and you have a 300-word limit. That isn't enough room for me to tell everything about the nominee. How do I send additional information, such as a resume or extended biography?
The best thing you can do is concisely tell us why the nominee should be considered. If you send too much information, the relevant characteristics of the person get lost in the minutiae. We do request the candidates' bio or resume be attached with your submission. Additional information we need we collect from the candidate and other sources. 

Should I send you a nomination form using the online form and then fax you a copy of it and then send you a hard copy, too?
No. We only need it once, and we do not accept faxes.

I would like to nominate someone, but he or she turns 40 before your publication date. Can I still nominate that person?
No. Nominations for anyone who does not meet the age requirement are discarded. We verify the birthdates of finalists.

How does the process work?
After we receive a nomination, the editors hold a series of meetings to determine who will be chosen. We strive to come up with a diverse list that represents a broad spectrum of the fields, companies and organizations we cover. 

Can I contact you to see how my nominee is doing in the judging process?
No. We don't give status reports. If you were nominated by a public relations firm, please do not ask them to call us to check on the nomination. 

I want to be picked for 40 Under 40. Will it help to hire a public relations firm?
It doesn't influence the judging. Some candidates use PR firms or internal corporate communications departments for help with the forms.

I have submitted my nomination form. Since then I have won an award. Can I add that to my form? If I have had a change in job or employment, can I update my form?
Awards don't figure heavily in the judging, but feel free to let us know about it. On the other hand, it's very important we know about a change in employer or title.

How will I know if I have been chosen for 40 Under 40? What can I expect if I am chosen?
When we have finalized our list, we ask reporters to contact the nominees and set up interviews. The nominees are expected to sit for a photograph and a videotaped interview, in addition to an interview conducted by a reporter. If a nominee cannot or chooses not to participate in the photo or video shoots, or the interview, he or she will not be included.

There also will be an event to honor the individuals recognized, and although the individuals are encouraged to attend, it is not required.

When will I hear from you?
Honorees will be notified approximately 5 weeks before publication. 

I was not picked for 40 Under 40. Can you tell me why?
With more than 200 nominees and only 40 slots, four out of five candidates will not be picked. We will not be able to tell you why you weren't picked mainly because it won't be for any one reason, but for reasons that have to do with presenting a diverse range of professions and fields.

For customer service questions and concerns regarding your account, please email customerservice@crainscleveland.com.

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