The Specialty Food Association’s annual Leadership Awards honor six notable leaders whose impact is felt across the industry. We look to recognize those who are going above and beyond everyday business for their employees, their communities, and the greater good. These are exceptional individuals who champion specialty food and exemplify the good within our community. Awards are granted in six unique categories.
Leadership Award Categories
- Equity & Opportunity
- For demonstrating business leadership in advancing best practices in the food industry to create economic opportunity and improve the quality of life for food industry personnel (e.g., employee benefits, equitable practices, diversity and inclusion, engaging and motivating employees in innovative ways.)
- Citizenship
- For improving the lives of people and communities through ethical business practices or philanthropic work (e.g., hunger relief, literacy, childhood nutrition)
- Vision & Sustainability
- For pioneering innovative approaches and sustainable practices in production, packaging, and waste reduction to drive environmental stewardship and create forward-thinking business models.
- Outstanding Buyer
- For championing specialty foods through excellence in product sourcing, merchandising, marketing, or mentoring of food companies.
- Next Generation Leader
- For dynamic individuals 35 and under who are driving innovation, fostering growth, and making a substantial impact within the specialty food industry.
- Volunteer of the Year
- For the SFA volunteer who demonstrates exceptional dedication, leadership, and impact, contributing significant time and expertise to advance the specialty food industry and inspire others. (To be selected by SFA leadership)
Awards Criteria
Nominees must meet the following requirements:
1. Be a current SFA member with a minimum of 5 years in the industry (excluding Next Generation Leader and Outstanding Buyer—see specific criteria for those awards via nomination form).
2. Self-nominations are not accepted.
Nomination Process:
- Nominations can be submitted by colleagues, peers, or industry partners. If submitted by a PR or marketing agency, the nominee must confirm their awareness and consent before the nomination is reviewed.
- A panel of independent judges from the SFA Recognition Council will review entries and select honorees. The panel may change or reassign award categories if necessary.
- SFA Board Members are ineligible for nomination during their active term.
Nominations for 2026 honorees are open from December 15 - February 27.
For questions, contact [email protected].