Applications Now Open for New Program Honoring Young Professionals Making Memphis Greater

MEMPHIS, TN – The Greater Memphis Chamber announced the launch of the Memphis Next-Gen Awards, a new recognition program designed to celebrate young professionals who are driving innovation, leadership, and community impact across the region. Building upon the legacy of the Young Memphis Awards, this reimagined program will honor ten outstanding individuals who exemplify the future of Memphis business leadership.

“The Next-Gen Awards represent our commitment to recognizing and nurturing the next generation of business leaders who are already making significant contributions to our region’s economic growth and community development,” said Ted Townsend, President & CEO of the Greater Memphis Chamber. “These awards highlight the incredible talent pipeline we’re building in Memphis as we continue to position ourselves as America’s Digital Delta – a hub for innovation and technology.”

 

Applications for the inaugural Next-Gen Awards are open through July 15, 2025, at 11:59 p.m. CST. Winners will be announced on September 1, 2025.

 

To qualify for consideration, applicants must:
  • Be between 22 and 40 years old
  • Be employed by a Greater Memphis Chamber member company
  • Submit a completed application form
  • Submit a video and/or written response as to why you should be a Next-Gen recipient.
  • Provide two professional references

References should come from supervisors, colleagues, or mentors who can speak to the applicant’s professional achievements and community impact. Reference letters must be submitted to tcarpenter@memphischamber.com with the subject line: “[Applicant’s Name] – Next Gen Reference.”

For more information about the Next-Gen 10 Awards or to submit an application, click HERE.

 

About The Greater Memphis Chamber 

One of Memphis’ oldest institutions, dating back to 1838, the Greater Memphis Chamber is a privately funded nonprofit that serves as the region’s lead economic development organization and the “Voice of Memphis Business” on local, state, and national issues. The Chamber’s mission is to drive the Memphis business agenda for Greater Memphis. We do this by relentlessly pursuing prosperity for all — through economic and workforce development, pro-growth advocacy, and by providing support and resources to its investors, which include many of the region’s largest employers.