Nominations are now officially open for the prestigious 2025 Bold Woman Awards, hosted by Veuve Clicquot. For over five decades, these awards have celebrated the remarkable contributions of female entrepreneurs, leaders, and innovators in various fields across the UK. This year’s event, marking its 53rd edition, continues to embody the pioneering spirit of Madame Clicquot, a figure often hailed as a trailblazer in the world of Champagne.
The Bold Woman Awards cast a spotlight on outstanding female leadership by recognizing those who demonstrate courage, resilience, and an entrepreneurial mindset. The awards feature two primary categories: the Bold Woman Award and the Bold Future Award.
The Bold Woman Award honors accomplished female leaders who have made significant strides in their organizations while serving as inspiring role models. Candidates are required to have held their leadership positions for a minimum of three years, making it essential for nominees to demonstrate long-term impact in their fields. Last year’s winner, Tracy Blackwell, exemplifies the caliber of candidates that the awards strive to attract. As the co-founder of Pension Insurance Corporation (PIC), Blackwell has been instrumental in driving the company’s growth, expanding its asset portfolio to an impressive £50 billion, while significantly investing in UK infrastructure.
On the other hand, the Bold Future Award requires nominees to be female founders of organizations established within the last five years. This accolade highlights the importance of innovation and creativity in today’s rapidly changing business landscape. Francesca Brady, last year’s recipient, was recognized for founding AirRated, a pioneering company that applies advanced technology to measure indoor air quality—a critical aspect often neglected in discussions surrounding health and the environment.
Both award categories focus on candidates who demonstrate concrete evidence of positive social, ethical, or environmental impact. The emphasis on tangible results sets these awards apart, underscoring a commitment to acknowledging not just success, but meaningful contributions to society.
The judging panel for the 2025 Bold Woman Awards includes influential figures from various industries, further enhancing the awards’ credibility. Notable new judges such as Bridget Lea, Vice President and General Manager UK of Snap Inc., and Izzy Obeng, CEO of Foundervine, join returning judge Sharmadean Reid MBE, founder of The Stack World and a previous award winner. Their diverse backgrounds and perspectives are expected to add depth to the evaluation process.
Jean-Marc Gallot, President of Veuve Clicquot, recognizes the quality and talent of the candidates. “The Veuve Clicquot Bold Woman Award has honored remarkable female entrepreneurs for over fifty years, and each year the candidates are exceptional,” he stated. He urges the public to come forward and nominate inspirational female leaders who resonate with the spirit and success exemplified by Madame Clicquot.
The awards not only celebrate the present achievements of women but also aim to inspire future generations. Izzy Obeng emphasizes the importance of community recognition, stating, “Celebrating ambitious, intelligent women is at the heart of the Bold Award.” According to her, the journey of a female entrepreneur does not have to be solitary; it’s about coming together to celebrate achievements in a supportive environment.
The nominations are open to women from across the UK, and the winners will be honored at a special event held in London in 2025. The judging criteria take into account elements such as innovation, entrepreneurial spirit, promotion of female leadership, and adherence to ethical standards.
In a forward-thinking move, future winners will also be included in Veuve Clicquot’s newly launched Bold Open Database. This global database aims to highlight female entrepreneurs and proliferate valuable data for journalists, researchers, and investors. By increasing visibility for women-led ventures, this initiative seeks to create a more inclusive and supportive ecosystem for emerging female leaders.
In conclusion, the 2025 Bold Woman Awards provide an excellent opportunity to recognize and celebrate the accomplishments of female entrepreneurs who are challenging the status quo. The event not only serves as a platform for honoring those making waves in their industries but also aims to ignite inspiration among the next generation of leaders. By participating in the nomination process, you contribute to a movement that values innovation, courage, and the advancement of women in business.
