2026 Prometheus Nominations Form

2026 Prometheus Awards Nominations

The Prometheus Awards recognize the people, companies, and innovations shaping Iowa’s technology future. Nominate an individual, company, team, or your own organization to help spotlight the work driving progress across our state. Whether it’s a breakthrough product, a stronger customer experience, a standout leader, or technology transforming how an organization operates, your nomination helps tell the story of Iowa’s tech ecosystem and the impact being created here.

Please complete one nomination form per organization, but feel free to nominate for multiple company and individual awards. This streamlined process ensures you only need to submit your information once, making it easy to recognize outstanding achievements across various categories.
Save & Continue: You can save your nomination progress, but we highly recommend writing your responses in a separate document to prevent any loss of information.
Unique Responses: Ensure your responses are unique for each award. Judges evaluate based on tailored answers relevant to each award's topic. Avoid copying and pasting responses across different awards.
Be Concise: Keep responses within the recommended word count. We strongly encourage nominations to remain within the suggested word limits to ensure a consistent and effective review process for all submissions.

Key Dates

Nominations Period: July 1 through August 12, 2026
Finalists Announced: September, 2026
Prometheus Awards: Thursday, November 5, 2026

Questions? Contact events@technologyiowa.org

Nominator Information

Information on who is submitting the nomination form

First Name(Required)

Last Name(Required)

Email Address(Required)

Phone Number(Required)

Company Name(Required)

Which categories are you nominating for?(Required)

Company Awards (Ex: Startup Technology Company of the Year, AI Breakthrough of the Year, Enterprise Technology Company of the Year)

Individual Awards (Ex: Next-Gen Tech Professional of the Year, Emerging Technology Leader of the Year, CISO of the Year)

Company Contact Information

Submit information on the main contact of the organization being nominated who will be notified of the finalist results.

First Name(Required)

Last Name(Required)

Title(Required)

Email Address(Required)

General Company Information

First, share general information on the organization being nominated. Then, you will submit award-specific information.

Company Name(Required)

Company Website(Required)

Company LinkedIn URL

Company Overview (250 words max)(Required)

High-level overview of the company, including summary of products or services and/or mission and vision statement.

Company Awards

Select the checkbox of the company awards you wish to nominate for, and relevant questions will appear based on your selections.

Company Award Categories(Required)

Startup Technology Company of the Year

IT Service Provider Technology Company of the Year

Manufacturing Innovation of the Year

AI Breakthrough of the Year

Outstanding UX/CX Achievement of the Year

Data Solution of the Year

Best Technology Company Culture of the Year

Growth Technology Company of the Year

Enterprise Technology Company of the Year

Individual Awards

Select the checkbox of the individual awards you wish to nominate for, and relevant questions will appear based on your selections.

Individual Award Categories(Required)

CIO/CTO of the Year

CISO of the Year

Emerging Technology Leader of the Year

Next-Gen Tech Professional of the Year

Startup Technology Company of the Year

Spotlighting the rising stars of Iowa's tech landscape, the Startup Technology Company of the Year award celebrates a young and dynamic tech enterprise that has shown exceptional potential in the market. This accolade is reserved for those innovative companies that have been operating for three years or less and have generated under $1 million in sales revenue over the past 12 months. For the purposes of this award, the 'past 12 months' is defined as the period leading up to the start of our nomination period, from July 1 to August 12. We're looking for trailblazers who are redefining the boundaries of technology with their creativity and vision, signaling a bright and promising future.

Year Founded(Required)

Key Achievements (500 words max)(Required)

Examples may include but are not limited to:
• Innovative product development addressing market needs.
• Acquisition of key clients or strategic partnerships.
• Awards or industry recognition validating innovation.

Business Impact (500 words max):(Required)

Examples may include but are not limited to:
• Achieving significant revenue milestones.
• Introducing disruptive business models.
• Metrics showing improved operational efficiencies or market share growth.

Any Additional Information?

IT Service Provider Technology Company of the Year

Honoring the unsung heroes of Iowa's tech sector, the IT Service Provider Technology Company of the Year award recognizes exceptional companies that empower their clients through innovative technology solutions. These industry leaders excel in optimizing workloads, slashing internal business costs, accelerating time-to-market, and fortifying infrastructure with cutting-edge software applications or hardware services. The award celebrates those who deliver excellence in IT services and drive transformative change in their clients' operations. Nominees for this category should consider the 12 months leading up to our nomination period, from July 1 to August 12, as the timeframe for their achievements.

Key Achievements (500 words max)(Required)

Examples may include but are not limited to:
• Successfully implementing customized IT solutions tailored to client needs.
• Enhancing cybersecurity protocols to safeguard client data and systems.
• Developing and deploying innovative software applications or hardware solutions.

Business Impact (500 words max):(Required)

Examples may include but are not limited to:
• Improving operational efficiency and reducing downtime for clients.
• Facilitating digital transformation initiatives that streamline business processes.
• Increasing client satisfaction and retention through superior service delivery.

Any Additional Information?

Manufacturing Innovation of the Year

The Manufacturing Innovation of the Year award celebrates groundbreaking advancements in the realm of manufacturing technology. This award honors companies and/or partners or providers who have pioneered significant developments in hardware or software manufacturing technologies and automation applications. Innovations that have notably enhanced speed, accuracy, customization, and cost-efficiency, leading to substantial market advantages for customers and partners, are at the forefront of this award. It is a tribute to transformative solutions that steer the manufacturing industry towards a more efficient and competitive future. Eligible innovations are those implemented or realized within the 12 months leading up to the nomination period, from July 1 to August 12.

Key Achievements (500 words max)(Required)

Examples may include but are not limited to:
• Developing advanced manufacturing processes that increase production efficiency.
• Introducing innovative automation technologies to streamline operations.
• Creating new materials or components that improve product performance.

Business Impact (500 words max)(Required)

Examples may include but are not limited to:
• Reducing manufacturing costs while maintaining or improving product quality.
• Enhancing supply chain management through better inventory control.
• Gaining market share by offering superior products or services enabled by innovations.

Any Additional Information?

AI Breakthrough of the Year

The AI Breakthrough of the Year award celebrates a landmark achievement in the field of artificial intelligence. This award honors organizations and/or clients or partners who have made significant strides in AI technology over the past 12 months. Potential achievements could be through innovative algorithms, groundbreaking applications, or transformative implementations that have pushed the boundaries of AI to new heights. This award recognizes efforts that result in profound impacts on industry operations, market dynamics, or societal advancements. It emphasizes solutions that demonstrate technical excellence and set the stage for future advancements in AI. Eligible breakthroughs are those developed or achieved within the 12 months leading up to the nomination period, from July 1 to August 12.

Key Achievements (500 words max)(Required)

Examples may include but are not limited to:
• Developing novel AI algorithms that improve accuracy and efficiency in specific tasks.
• Implementing AI-driven applications that enhance customer experience or operational efficiency.
• Integrating AI into existing systems to automate processes and reduce manual effort.

Business Impact (500 words max)(Required)

Examples may include but are not limited to:
• Increasing productivity and cost savings through AI-driven optimizations.
• Expanding market reach or gaining competitive advantage with AI-powered innovations.
• Driving revenue growth by introducing AI-based products or services that meet market demands.

Any Additional Information?

Outstanding UX/CX Achievement of the Year

The Outstanding UX/CX Achievement of the Year award recognizes remarkable accomplishments in the user experience (UX) and/or customer experience (CX) spaces. This award is dedicated to companies/organizations who have developed outstanding solutions or applications that significantly enhance how users and customers interact with technology. Focusing on innovative design, intuitive interfaces, and impactful user engagement, this award highlights achievements transforming how products and services are experienced, leading to higher satisfaction and engagement. The accolade seeks to honor solutions that blend functionality with exceptional aesthetics, setting new standards in UX/CX. Eligible achievements are those developed or implemented within the 12 months leading up to the nomination period, from July 1 to August 12.

Key Achievements (500 words max)(Required)

Examples may include but are not limited to:
• Redesigning digital platforms to improve user interface (UI) and navigation, resulting in increased user satisfaction.
• Creating intuitive mobile applications that enhance user engagement and streamline customer interactions.
• Implementing personalized customer journeys that optimize UX/CX and boost retention rates.

Business Impact (500 words max)(Required)

Examples may include but are not limited to:
• Improving customer retention and loyalty through enhanced user experiences.
• Increasing conversion rates by optimizing user flows and reducing friction points.
• Enhancing brand reputation and market perception through superior UX/CX innovations.

Any Additional Information?

Data Solution of the Year

The Data Solutions of the Year award celebrates outstanding achievements in the diverse world of data, whether through a single groundbreaking solution or a series of integrated data initiatives. This award acknowledges those who have excelled in developing and implementing data solutions, covering areas including, but not limited to, data governance, analytics, management, and visualization. Recognized are the efforts that have significantly advanced the way data is processed, analyzed, and utilized, leading to impactful insights and decisions. This award highlights work that demonstrates mastery in turning data into a strategic asset, enhancing data quality, improving accessibility, or fostering data-driven cultures. Eligible solutions and achievements are those developed or implemented within the 12 months leading up to the nomination period, from July 1 to August 12.

Key Achievements (500 words max)(Required)

Examples may include but are not limited to:
• Developing a robust data governance framework that ensures data integrity and compliance with regulatory standards.
• Implementing advanced analytics models that uncover actionable insights and drive informed decision-making.
• Introducing innovative data management solutions that streamline operations and reduce costs.

Business Impact (500 words max)(Required)

Examples may include but are not limited to:
• Enhancing operational efficiency through data-driven optimizations and automation.
• Accelerating time-to-insight, enabling faster response to market trends and customer needs.
• Empowering organizations to make strategic decisions based on reliable and actionable data insights.

Any Additional Information?

Best Technology Company Culture of the Year

The Best Technology Culture of the Year award recognizes an organization that has excelled in creating and nurturing a technology culture that drives success and innovation. This award celebrates companies where technology is not just a tool but a fundamental part of the organizational ethos, encouraging employees to engage, innovate, and excel in a tech-centric environment. Key aspects of this culture include the integration of advanced technology practices, fostering open communication around tech initiatives, recruiting diverse talent with strong tech skills, and providing opportunities for continuous tech-focused professional development. This accolade honors organizations that have established a technology culture that not only enhances productivity and employee satisfaction but also propels the organization's growth and leadership in its field.

Eligible organizations are those that have demonstrated a robust and dynamic technology culture within the 12 months leading up to the nomination period, from July 1 to August 12.

Key Achievements (500 words max)(Required)

Examples may include but are not limited to:
• Implementing innovative employee engagement programs centered around technology, fostering a collaborative and motivated workforce.
• Cultivating a culture of continuous learning and development in technology skills, resulting in a highly skilled and adaptable workforce.
• Establishing effective communication channels for sharing tech-related initiatives and achievements across the organization.

Business Impact (500 words max)(Required)

Examples may include but are not limited to:
• Improving employee retention and satisfaction through a tech-focused culture that values innovation and creativity.
• Driving organizational agility and responsiveness to technological changes in the market.
• Enhancing the organization’s reputation as a leader in technology innovation and workplace culture, attracting top tech talent.

Any Additional Information?

CIO/CTO of the Year

The CIO/CTO of the Year award honors a distinguished leader known for their innovation and creativity in the strategic planning and deployment of enterprise systems. This award recognizes a CIO or CTO (or equivalent executive role) who has demonstrated excellence in setting future IT goals, embodying a visionary management philosophy, and providing exceptional service to both the industry and the community. Celebrating the blend of technical expertise, strategic thinking, and leadership, this award highlights the significant role these executives play in advancing technology within their organizations and contributing to broader industry development.

The focus is on leaders who have made impactful achievements and set exemplary standards in the technology field over the past 12 months, leading up to the nomination period from July 1 to August 12.

First Name(Required)

Last Name(Required)

Email Address(Required)

Job Title(Required)

Company Name(Required)

LinkedIn URL

Bio/Background (Max 500 Words)(Required)

Provide a bio/background of the nominee.

Key Achievements (Max 500 Words)(Required)

Examples may include but are not limited to:
• Leading transformative IT projects enhancing operational efficiency.
• Innovating digital initiatives improving customer experiences.
• Driving cybersecurity initiatives ensuring data integrity.
• Mentoring IT talent, fostering innovation.
• Industry recognition
• Establishing strategic partnerships driving competitive advantage.

Any Additional Information?

CISO of the Year

The CISO of the Year award celebrates an exceptional Chief Information Security Officer (or equivalent executive role) within the Iowa technology industry who has demonstrated outstanding leadership and innovation in cybersecurity. This award honors a CISO who has notably contributed to protecting Iowa-based organizations' digital assets, implementing advanced security strategies, and promoting a culture of cybersecurity awareness across the state. The award acknowledges achievements in bolstering organizational security posture, responding adeptly to emerging threats, and making significant contributions to the broader cybersecurity community in Iowa. Recognizing the critical role CISOs play in safeguarding information and infrastructure in the region, this award showcases their expertise, strategic vision, and unwavering commitment to excellence. Eligible achievements for this award are those made within the 12 months leading up to the nomination period, from July 1 to August 12.

First Name(Required)

Last Name(Required)

Email Address(Required)

Job Title(Required)

Company Name(Required)

LinkedIn URL

Bio/Background (Max 500 Words)(Required)

Provide a bio/background of the nominee.

Key Achievements (Max 500 Words)(Required)

Examples may include but are not limited to:
• Implementing robust cybersecurity frameworks that effectively mitigate risks.
• Leading incident response teams to swiftly address and contain security breaches.
• Spearheading innovative approaches to threat detection and prevention.
• Enhancing organizational resilience through comprehensive cybersecurity training programs.
• Contributing to industry best practices and standards in cybersecurity.
• Collaborating with government agencies or law enforcement on cybersecurity initiatives.

Any Additional Information?

Emerging Technology Leader of the Year

The Emerging Iowa Technology Leader of the Year award recognizes an individual who has made a significant impact and demonstrates continuous, outstanding achievement in the Iowa technology community. This award celebrates a leader who epitomizes the future of tech leadership in Iowa. Distinguished by their significant contributions and dedication to advancing the state's tech sector, this individual exhibits dynamic leadership, innovative approaches, and the ability to inspire others. Eligible candidates are those whose achievements and influence have been particularly evident within the 12 months leading up to the nomination period, from July 1 to August 12.

First Name(Required)

Last Name(Required)

Email Address(Required)

Job Title(Required)

Company Name(Required)

LinkedIn URL

Bio/Background (Max 500 Words)(Required)

Provide a bio/background of the nominee.

Key Achievements (Max 500 Words)(Required)

Examples may include but are not limited to:
• Leading innovative tech projects with measurable impacts.
• Advocating for diversity and inclusion in tech initiatives.
• Demonstrating thought leadership through industry publications or speaking engagements.
• Successfully implementing technology solutions that drive business growth.
• Mentoring emerging tech talent and fostering innovation.
• Receiving recognition or awards for contributions to the Iowa tech community.

Any Additional Information?

Next-Gen Tech Professional of the Year

Next-Gen Tech Professional of the Year award is presented to an individual early in their tech career, with less than 10 years of experience, who has made significant contributions and demonstrated exceptional potential within the Iowa technology industry. This award celebrates emerging talent working within the state, recognizing individuals for their outstanding achievements, creativity, and the promise they hold to shape the future of technology in Iowa. Honored are those who have shown an ability to innovate, lead, and inspire within Iowa's tech landscape. This accolade acknowledges their significant accomplishments and exciting potential to influence the growth and advancement of technology in the region. Eligible candidates are those whose influence and impact have become evident within the 12 months leading up to the nomination period, from July 1 to August 12.

First Name(Required)

Last Name(Required)

Email Address(Required)

Job Title(Required)

Company Name(Required)

LinkedIn URL

Year of Experience(Required)

Bio/Background (Max 500 Words)(Required)

Provide a bio/background of the nominee.

Key Achievements (Max 500 Words)(Required)

Examples may include but are not limited to:
• Spearheading innovative projects or initiatives that demonstrate creativity and technical expertise.
• Making significant contributions to team or organizational goals, showcasing leadership abilities.
• Demonstrating outstanding problem-solving skills or technical achievements.
• Receiving recognition or awards for contributions to technology or related fields.
• Driving impactful changes or improvements within their organization or community through technology.

Any Additional Information?

Growth Technology Company of the Year

The Growth Technology Company of the Year award recognizes an Iowa technology or tech-enabled company with annual revenues between $1 million and $10 million that is using technology to drive innovation, growth, market traction, customer experience, or business impact. This award honors growing companies demonstrating strong vision, execution, and measurable progress through their products, services, operations, or business model. Eligible companies should show notable achievements within the 12 months leading up to the nomination period, from July 1 to August 12, and contribute to Iowa’s continued growth as a technology and innovation leader.

Key Achievements (Max 500 words)(Required)

Examples may include but are not limited to:
• Launching innovative products or services that have gained significant market traction.
• Achieving substantial revenue growth or profitability within the past year.
• Implementing scalable technology solutions that enhance operational efficiency.
• Establishing strategic partnerships that have accelerated business expansion.
• Demonstrating leadership in industry-specific innovation or technology adoption.
• Receiving industry awards or recognition for technological achievements.

Business Impact (Max 500 Words)(Required)

** Examples may include but are not limited to:
• Increasing market share or penetration in competitive markets.
• Improving customer retention rates through enhanced service delivery.
• Generating significant cost savings or operational efficiencies.
• Enhancing employee satisfaction and retention through technology-driven initiatives.
• Contributing to the local economy through job creation or community engagement.
• Positioning the company as a leader in technology and innovation within Iowa.
• ** Please include approximate annual revenue in this section

Any Additional Information?

Enterprise Technology Company of the Year

The Enterprise Technology Company of the Year award recognizes an Iowa company with annual revenues exceeding $10 million that is using technology to drive innovation, growth, operational excellence, customer experience, or market impact. This award honors enterprise-level companies demonstrating strong strategy, vision, execution, and measurable progress through their products, services, operations, or business model. Eligible companies should show notable achievements within the 12 months leading up to the nomination period, from July 1 to August 12, and contribute to Iowa’s continued growth as a technology and innovation leader.

Key Achievements (Max 500 Words)(Required)

Examples may include but are not limited to:
• Launching groundbreaking products or services that redefine industry standards.
• Achieving substantial revenue growth or profitability exceeding market expectations.
• Implementing innovative technologies that drive operational excellence and customer satisfaction.
• Expanding into new markets or territories, diversifying revenue streams.
• Spearheading industry-wide initiatives that set benchmarks for technological innovation.
• Earning prestigious industry awards or recognition for outstanding achievements.

Business Impact (Max 500 Words)(Required)

** Examples may include but are not limited to:
• Creating jobs and contributing to economic growth in Iowa.
• Enhancing customer experiences and satisfaction through advanced technologies.
• Strengthening partnerships and collaborations that drive industry leadership.
• Increasing shareholder value through strategic business initiatives.
• Fostering a culture of innovation and continuous improvement within the organization.
• Elevating Iowa’s profile as a leading hub for technological innovation and excellence.
• ** Please include approximate annual revenue in this section

Any Additional Information?

Submit

By clicking ‘Submit’, I acknowledge that if selected as a finalist, the nominee must provide a 30-second promotional video about the individual/organization. Finalists are also required to attend the event on November 5, 2026.

2026 Prometheus Awards Nominations

Key Dates

Nominations Period: July 1 through August 12, 2026
Finalists Announced: September, 2026
Prometheus Awards: Thursday, November 5, 2026

Questions? Contact events@technologyiowa.org