A NEW WAY TO RECOGNIZE OUR PARTNERS
To further celebrate the contributions of all our exhibiting brands, we have transformed our awards program to recognize the creativity and ingenuity of this industry. NY NOW’s Innovation & Impact Awards gives our community an opportunity to showcase their products.
NY NOW exhibitors are eligible to enter their products for consideration in three categories:
- Sustainability & Social Impact
- Trailblazer
- Emerging Brand
Each entry costs $25. The submissions will be judged by a jury of five esteemed individuals from a variety of areas in the industry. Three finalists in each category will be displayed at the upcoming market and winners in each category will receive a $500 discount on their booth at the subsequent market.
- Submission Deadline: Friday, January 17th, 2025
- Winners Announced: Onsite at Winter Market, February 4th, 2025
NY NOW Winter 2025, Summer 2024, and Winter 2024 Market exhibitors are eligible to participate. Each entry costs $25. All submissions must be received by January 17th, 2025. Winners will be announced at the NY NOW Winter 2025 Market.
Who Can Submit?
NY NOW Exhibitors of our Winter ’25, Summer ’24, and Winter ’24 Markets.
Submissions are open to both US-based and international businesses. Entrants must be at least 18 years of age as of the date of entry. Entrants may submit more than one entry in any category. A separate entry form must be completed for each entry. No refunds of entry fees will be issued.
The Categories
Recognizes exhibitors and brands who have demonstrated a profound commitment to sustainability and social responsibility. It honors those who prioritize environmentally conscious practices, ethically sourced materials, and initiatives that positively impact communities and society as a whole.
Dedicated to visionaries who have made a lasting impact on the industry. This prestigious recognition honors exhibitors and brands that have been pioneers in their field, driving positive change, and leaving a lasting legacy through their innovative contributions.
Designed to uplift promising talent, this award celebrates budding brands and exhibitors that have shown exceptional growth potential and innovation. It recognizes those who are making a significant impact in the market and highlights their potential as future industry leaders.
The People’s Choice Award invites buyers at NY NOW to vote for their favorite products from our finalists while on-site. It’s a direct way for buyers to spotlight items that stand out during the event, reflecting the trends and preferences they believe will resonate with customers in the retail space.
Our 2023 Award Winners
Matr Boomie launched Kandu, a social enterprise that creates meaningful and well-paying employment opportunities for women who have faced challenges such as incarceration, domestic violence, risk of homelessness, and refugee status. Judge Helen Joffe noted, “Matr Boomie is a company well-known for their fair-trade work in India, and now they’ve expanded their work to support refugees while creating a sustainable, beautiful product.”
In reviewing Brook37’s application, Judge Hadley Keller said that she was immediately struck by their “incredibly thoughtful approach to branding and package design.” She adds, “This brand manages to incorporate nods to its nature-forward ethos, both visually (embossed leaf motifs) and logistically (eschewing plastic packaging and encouraging re-use).” Hadley also loved how the stackable canisters encourage re-use and promote wellness through embracing tea time as an act of self-care.
In reviewing this award’s submissions, judge Kelly Bennett was struck by how much Bonita Fierce Candles stands out within the crowded candle industry. “They are building a candle company with roots in Latin culture, plus bringing a modern take to traditions and rituals,” she said. Bringing Latin culture to major retailers like Nordstrom, Urban Outfitters, and Barnes & Noble is no small feat. Kelly says she can’t wait to see how founder Melissa Gallardo continues to scale and build her community.
Ryan MacFarland developed All Kids Bike, a program equipping 1,000 participating schools with the tools to teach kindergarteners how to ride. Ryan has also started two other programs: Strider’s Adaptive Program to support children with limb differences; and 20x Sport, a learn-to-ride tool for individuals with disabilities. Judge Patti Carpenter was impressed with Strider’s giveback mission, stating, “This is what true community-based thinking should embody in all companies.”
Award Winners Can
Look Forward To:
Onsite Market Recognition
Including but not limited to: onsite displays on the show floor, onsite announcements of winners, meter board displays, live announcements, and more.
Discounted Booth at the Next show
Take advantage of deep discounts on your Summer 2025 Market booth! Winners will receive $500 off when they reserve their space.