The ATHENA Awards: Honoring Women in BusinessThe ATHENA Young Professional AwardThe Greater Phoenix Chamber’s ATHENA Awards program recognizes and celebrates the achievements of businesswomen across the Greater Phoenix region. The ATHENA Award, an internationally prized honor, recognizes women who demonstrate excellence in professional leadership, community service, and role modeling for other young professionals. These are women to watch.
The Greater Phoenix Chamber proudly hosts one of the most highly-regarded ATHENA Awards programs in the country. As the Chamber enters its landmark 39th anniversary, 74 accomplished and compassionate Valley businesswomen have earned the title of ATHENA. Thousands more have been recognized as nominees and finalists for their immeasurable contributions to our community.
The Role of the ATHENA Young Professional Award RecipientsATHENAs donate their time, talent, and leadership skills to our community long after receiving their award. Ongoing involvement may include speaking engagements, acting as a spokesperson for the ATHENA program, writing guest editorials, mentoring future leaders, and continued participation in the Chamber’s ATHENA program.
Who is an ATHENA Young Professional? An ATHENA Young Professional recipient must meet four specific criteria:
- Age: 24-39
- Leadership: Acts as an emerging leader who demonstrates excellence, creativity, and initiative in their business or profession within the Greater Phoenix area
- Role Model: Clearly serves as a role model or mentor for young people personally and professionally
- Community Service: Provides valuable service by contributing time and energy to improve the quality of life for others in the community.
Time requirementsFriday, June 26, 2026 – Nomination forms due by 5 p.m. (No extensions granted)
Friday, July 17, 2026 – Application packets due by 5 p.m. (No extensions granted)
Tuesday, August 18, 2026 – ATHENA Nominee Reception (Attendance recommended)
Friday, August 28, 2026 – ATHENA Selection Committee panel interview, video interview, and photos (finalists only)
- 2:45 p.m. – 5 p.m. – Selection of recipient - Young Professional Award
Thursday, October 29, 2026 –
ATHENA Awards Luncheon at the JW Marriott Desert Ridge
- 9:30 a.m.-1 p.m. - Finalist time commitment
Requirements for eligibility:
- Nominees must be able to meet the above time commitments.
- Finalists must support the ATHENA Awards event as a table host (minimum of one $1,750 table).
- Individuals currently serving in a paid elected position are not eligible to participate. (e.g. state legislators are not eligible; school board members are eligible for consideration. Please contact athena@phoenixchamber.com with questions on eligibility.)
Nominations forms are due Friday, June 26, 2026 by 5 p.m.! No extensions granted 