Greater Memphis Chamber

Memphis Next-Gen Awards

Recognizing Young Professionals Making an Impact on Memphis

Born from the Young Memphis Awards, the Greater Memphis Chamber announces a new award honoring young professionals, the Memphis Next-Gen Awards. Aptly named the Next-Gen 10, ten young professionals will be recognized for their achievements in making Memphis greater.

The application is open from June 2-July 25 at 11:59 p.m. CST.

Winners will be announced on September 1, 2026. 

Eligibility Criteria:

  • 22 – 40 Years Old
  • Employed by a Member Company of the Greater Memphis Chamber
  • Submit Application Form, Resume (no more than 2 pages) & Video

Application Requirements:

  • Video submissions only — no written responses accepted
  • Submit one video under 3 minutes addressing all four prompts noted below
  • Resume must be no more than 2 pages
  • Self-nomination process only
  • Provide the name, email address, and phone number of 3 references

Video Prompts:

  • Prompt 1: Introduce yourself and describe why you want to be a Next-Gen 10 awardee
  • Prompt 2: What is one professional accomplishment you are most proud of? How did you achieve it, and what impact did it have?
  • Prompt 3: How do you give back to your community or industry outside of your job — whether that be through volunteering, advocacy, or education? Share your impact.
  • Prompt 4: How have you demonstrated innovation or leadership in your field? Share an example of how you inspired or led others.

Please submit 2 references.

  • References can come from a supervisor, colleague, or mentor
  • Reference must include their contact information and relation to the applicant
  • Reference must submit a letter that speaks to the impact of the applicants professional and/or community work
  • All reference letters can be submitted to tcarpenter@memphischamber.com with the subject line: “[Applicant’s Name]- Next Gen Reference“

Please submit a 90-second video for 3 of the following prompts.
(Each applicant must answer question 1 and can choose 2 additional prompts to answer.)

  • Prompt 1: Introduce yourself and describe why you want to be a Next-Gen 10 awardee 
  • Prompt 2: What is one professional accomplishment you are most proud of? How did you achieve it, and what impact did it have?
  • Prompt 3: How do you give back to your community or industry outside of your job– whether that be through volunteering, advocacy, or education? Share your impact.
  • Prompt 4: How have you demonstrated innovation or leadership in your field? Share an example of how you inspired or led others.

Apply Today — Fill out the form below: