Unleashing the talent at Global Technology Startup Awards

“Innovation is in our DNA – we started these awards five years ago to support the brightest technology ideas and talent of today, and inspire the game changing entrepreneurs of tomorrow,” said Earl.

When asked about the Awards, Sir Richard Branson commented: “The technology start up sector will continue to transform and disrupt the global economy for many years to come and importantly can make the world a better place. We must encourage more talented individuals and organisations to become bolder and more active and in the process help drive innovation, invention and more efficiency and change across many sectors. I’m pleased to be part of the Talent Unleashed Awards as a global judge again in 2017.”

Speaking at the 2016 awards, global judge Steve Wozniak commented that he was excited to be able to identify the next-gen of innovative companies who are making a positive impact on society.

“The Talent Unleashed Awards are there to represent people who have had ideas, started companies, and created products that do good for society,” said Steve Wozniak. “I decided to judge this because innovation is so key in my life - especially people who are humble and just have an idea - and I love to follow good ideas.”

The deadline for entries is 31st August. Interested parties can nominate or enter online now by visiting the website. The categories for the 2017 Talent Unleashed awards are:

Best Idea – One to Watch!
Are you a fledgling or early stage business, with a bold idea or new technology that has the potential to have a significant impact on the world? Could your business be the next unicorn? Do you need the recognition, potential funding and exposure that comes with winning a global award to take your business to the next level? To enter the ‘Best Idea – One to Watch’ category, your organisation must be an incorporated entity in the region you are entering and in the initial stages (in the research phase or trading for less than one year).

Best Startup – Social or Community Impact
Talent Unleashed is searching for bold startup organisations that have made a big impact on social, environmental, philanthropic or community issues by using innovative technology to solve a pressing problem or have a transformational impact within the community. To enter the ‘Best Startup – Social or Community Impact’ category, your organisation must be an incorporated entity in the region you are entering, be 1-3 years old, be founded by the applicant, have fewer than 30 employees and be able to provide a full year’s financials (if required).

Best Startup – Tech or Digital Innovation
Are you an innovative startup organisation that has achieved outstanding results, growth or industry transformation through the development of cutting-edge, ground-breaking technology or through the creation of unique digital products or applications? Importantly, has your organisation changed the way things are done or empowered people to a new level?

To enter the ‘Best Startup – Tech or Digital Innovation’ category your organisation must be an incorporated entity in the region you are entering, be 1-3 years old, be founded by the applicant, have fewer than 30 employees and be able to provide a full year’s financials (if required).

Most Disruptive – Technology or Digital Leader
Are you a Technology, Digital or Innovation Chief at your company who has achieved amazing results through introducing a disruptive and unique approach to your firm’s technology strategy or digital environment? Have you bravely challenged the status quo within your organisation and driven technological change? To qualify for this category you must hold a senior technology leadership position (e.g. CIO, CTO, CDO or CSO etc.), in a company within the region of entry, have more than ten years of experience and lead a high performing team.

Most Progressive – Workplace Leader
Are you leading an organisation which empowers its employees, nurtures individuality and supports the needs of its people? Are you a leader transforming your work environment or culture through innovative staff engagement strategies or using technology and/or digital tools to inspire others to create tomorrow’s future workplace? To qualify for this category, entrants must hold a senior leadership position in a company within the region of entry, have more than ten years of experience and be progressing change and transformation in their company’s workplace culture.

Seven global winners will win a trip of a lifetime to Silicon Valley, where they will receive guided tours through some of the world’s leading tech companies as well as attend an exclusive VIP lunch with Steve Wozniak.