Nominations are now open for the 2026 INNOVATE100 event, which recognizes leaders in innovation across New Jersey. The celebration will take place on May 13 at the New Brunswick Performing Arts Center. Individuals from startups, corporations, universities, nonprofits, and government organizations will be acknowledged for their contributions to the state’s innovation sector.
James Barrood and Innovation+ lead the INNOVATE100 initiative. The program aims to honor not only top executives such as CEOs and presidents but also those who play key roles in promoting innovation within their organizations and communities.
“We are excited to continue our mission of celebrating the innovators who are shaping New Jersey’s future,” said James Barrood, founder/CEO of Innovation+. “This year’s nominees will be those who not only excel in their organizations, but also inspire collaboration, foster growth, and set the stage for the next generation of groundbreaking leaders.”
The selection process will include a variety of candidates from different industries. A special category called Innovators to Watch will highlight individuals expected to become future leaders in New Jersey’s innovation community. Nominations can be submitted by anyone, including self-nominations. Submissions require a nominee’s name, title, organization, and a brief statement about why they should be recognized. The nomination form is available online at https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeNryvqgzF29Itb3XgInoX0HngYRGUedKoG8jSpNG7m4u_5Rg/viewform?pli=1.
Nominations are being accepted until February 1. Those selected as honorees will be notified in mid-February.
Sponsors for this year’s event include Rutgers University, Valley Bank, Citrin Cooperman, Nokia Bell Labs, Bell Works and several partners such as NJBIA and Middlesex County. More information about nominations and details on previous events can be found at https://innovatenewjersey.com.
For additional questions or information regarding nominations or the event itself, inquiries can be sent via email to [email protected].
