Nomination Process
The Visit Fort Wayne Power of Tourism and Hospitality Awards celebrate the individuals and organizations who demonstrate excellence in our local tourism and hospitality industry. These dedicated professionals and businesses help shape the visitor experience and make Fort Wayne and Allen County a welcoming destination.
Selection Process
- Five tourism and hospitality industry partners from outside Allen County will anonymously review and score nominations to select finalists in each award category.
- One recipient in each award category will be announced at the awards luncheon.
Finalist Information
Finalists will be invited to attend the Power of Tourism and Hospitality Awards Luncheon as guests of Visit Fort Wayne at no cost.
Event Details
- Date: May 5, 2027
- Time: 11:00 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.
- Location: Allen County War Memorial Coliseum
Finalists attend free of charge. Additional guests must purchase tickets to attend the luncheon. Ticket information is coming soon.
Important Nomination Information
- Eligibility: Past award recipients, including individuals and organizations, are not eligible to win the same award in the following award year. Individuals from a winning organization who have not previously been nominated remain eligible.
- Nomination Limit: Each organization or business may submit a maximum of two nominations. Each nominee may be nominated in only one category.
- Scoring: Nominations are scored on a scale of 1 to 10, with 10 being the highest score. Selection is based on the answers provided in the nomination form.
Nomination Tips
Help your nominee stand out by following these tips:
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Provide thoughtful, detailed answers.
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Include specific examples of accomplishments and contributions.
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Explain how the nominee makes a difference in tourism, hospitality, or the community.
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Highlight what makes the nominee exceptional and deserving of recognition.
Important Dates
- March 15, 2027: Nominations close.
- March 22, 2027: Nominees will be notified by email from kendall@visitfortwayne.com.
- May 5, 2027: Power of Tourism and Hospitality Awards Luncheon.
Thank you for helping us recognize the people and organizations who make Fort Wayne and Allen County an exceptional destination!
Nomination Awards
- Service Excellence Award: Recognizes a frontline hospitality professional who provides outstanding customer service, creates memorable experiences, and goes above and beyond for visitors and guests.
- Behind the Scenes Award: Recognizes the dedicated individuals who work behind the scenes to support their teams and create positive visitor moments through their hard work and commitment to hospitality.
- Visitor Experience Award: Recognizes an organization or business that provides exceptional hospitality, creates lasting visitor experiences, and helps make Fort Wayne and Allen County a welcoming destination.
- Rising Star Award: Recognizes a hospitality professional with fewer than five years of industry experience who demonstrates exceptional promise, a passion for hospitality, and the potential to shape the future of tourism in Fort Wayne and Allen County.
- Hospitality Leadership Award: Recognizes an established hospitality professional who demonstrates exceptional leadership, inspires others, and strengthens the tourism and hospitality industry in Fort Wayne and Allen County.
- Power of Partnership: Recognizes two or more organizations, sectors, or individuals who work together to strengthen the visitor economy, benefit the community, and enhance tourism and hospitality in Fort Wayne and Allen County.
Visit Fort Wayne Awards
Host Them Here Award: Recognizes an individual whose dedication and advocacy help bring a conference, convention, or sporting event to Fort Wayne and Allen County. This award celebrates their role in showcasing our community and embodying Hoosier Hospitality by creating a welcoming experience for event attendees and visitors.
Thomas C. Henry Destination Development Award: Recognizes an individual, organization, or company that supports destination development, enhances quality of life for residents, and strengthens the visitor economy in Fort Wayne and Allen County.
Complete the Nomination Form Here
Click the + to view an example of a winning nomination from past event.
Nominee Qualities
This nominee’s culinary vision has sparked innovation within the local dining scene, inspiring other entrepreneurs to explore new directions in the industry. As a creative force behind a new wave of culinary trends, their inventive approach to cuisine combines bold creativity with deep respect for tradition. Their leadership demonstrates not only talent in the kitchen but also remarkable business acumen. Equally impressive is their generosity and commitment to the community. They freely share their knowledge and experience with others, mentoring aspiring professionals and fostering collaboration rather than competition. Their willingness to support others’ dreams exemplifies the spirit of growth and unity that strengthens the local tourism and hospitality community.
Examples
The nominee consistently provides exceptional service and cultivates memorable experiences for guests. They invest time in training and motivating staff, emphasizing excellence and creativity in every aspect of their work. Even under pressure, they handle challenges with professionalism, ensuring customer satisfaction remains the highest priority. Their commitment to quality, innovation, and genuine hospitality contributes meaningfully to the area’s reputation as a vibrant destination.
Professional Achievements
The nominee’s journey began with a strong educational foundation and hands-on experience that shaped their passion for the culinary arts. Through dedication and perseverance, they have become a respected leader in the restaurant and tourism industry. Their establishments have received recognition for excellence, reflecting a steadfast commitment to creating outstanding dining experiences that attract visitors and enhance the local tourism economy.
Additional Information
This individual exemplifies the qualities celebrated by the Power of Tourism Awards — creativity, leadership, community spirit, and dedication to elevating the visitor experience. They are truly a rising star whose influence extends far beyond their own business.
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