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
- The nominee must be a current SFA member, with a minimum of 5 years in the industry (except for Next Generation leader and Outstanding Buyer - see specific criteria for those awards).
- Self-nominations not accepted.
- A panel of independent judges, part of the SFA Recognition Council, will convene to review entries and select honorees. This panel has the right to change/reassign award types if deemed appropriate.
- Sitting SFA Board Members may not be nominated during their active term.
Nominations may be submitted by colleagues, peers, and industry partners. If a PR or marketing agency submits on a nominee’s behalf, the nominee must confirm their awareness and consent before the nomination is reviewed. All nominees must be current SFA members (with the exception of Outstanding Buyer), though they may be nominated by any member of the food industry community. Self-submissions will not be accepted. SFA Board Members are not eligible for nomination during their active terms.
Nominations for 2026 honorees are open December 15 - February 27.
Please contact [email protected] with any questions.