About the Program

The 40 Under Forty Awards profile Northwest Louisiana’s outstanding entrepreneurs, executives, managers, and professionals in public, private, or non-profit sectors. Winners are chosen based on such values as achievement, experience and innovation, vision, leadership, and community involvement.

Held each December, the awards ceremony is the signature event of the Young Professionals Initiative of Northwest Louisiana and is presented by The Forum.

Young Professionals Initiative

Young professionals are business professionals and corporate leaders between ages 21 and 40. They are motivated, educated and community-conscious individuals. YPs are always ready to play hard, work hard, and make a difference in their community.

40 Under Forty Awards Criteria​

The 40 Under Forty Awards are open to individuals who meet the criteria:

• Must be under 40 years of age as of July 31, during the award year
• Has made an impact on his or her company or community
• Show the potential to be a leader in business, politics and/or the community during the next decade
• Must live and work in Northwest Louisiana​

​The following individuals are not eligible:

• Previous 40 Under Forty award recipients
• Previous Young Professional of the Year recipients ​
• Chamber Employees
• Chamber award recipients of any kind in the past year

The selection process can be found here.