All your questions answered

About Crain’s 20 In Their 20s: 

An annual special section recognizing 20 up-and-coming professionals who haven’t turned 30 yet. These impressive young professionals represent the future of business leadership in Northeast Ohio. While their names might not be top of mind, the impacts they’ve had on their workplaces and the broader community are undeniable. 

Who’s eligible? 

Anyone working in Northeast Ohio who will be 29 or younger as of Sept. 15, 2025.

I'm under 30, what else are you looking for? 

Aside from being under the age of 30, the key quality is that the individual has been met with success in their career. Maybe he or she has started an interesting company or is already disrupting their field for the better. Or perhaps he or she has already made an impact through their philanthropic or civic involvement. 

What is the deadline for nomination? May 2, 2025 at 11:59 PM ET

I was recognized as a 20 In Their 20, can I be on the list again? 

No, 20 In Their 20s is a one-time honor. Check out Crain's 40 Under 40, Women of Influence, Notables or Best Places to Work as opportunities for future recognition. 

How do I submit a nomination? 

We only accept nominations with the online form. We do not accept nominations via phone, email, mail or fax. We need the detailed information called for in the online nomination form.  

• To get started: Click the nomination link and sign into your account. If you do not have an account, you will be asked to create one before you can proceed with the nomination form. We recommend using Chrome or Firefox web browsers to complete your application. 
• To finish an incomplete nomination: Sign into your account and choose either the "incomplete" or "in progress" option as shown on the next page. Then, select "edit" on the following page to complete the previously started submission.

How much does it cost to submit? 

The nomination fee is $25. Nomination fees may be paid via credit card (Visa, MasterCard, American Express). Nomination fees are non-refundable.   

Does it matter who submits the nomination? 

You can nominate yourself, a client, a family member, your boss, an employee or an acquaintance. The most important thing is that you state a clear, business-oriented reason for the nomination. It is helpful for a nominator to be in a position to be objective, but no one is disqualified based on who did the nominating.  

Can you send me a copy of my nomination form and invoice? 

To download a copy of your completed nomination and/or invoice, please follow the steps below:

• Download a copy of your nomination: Sign into your account and click "complete" under "my applications." On the next screen, you can view or print your completed nominations. 
• Download a copy of your invoice: Sign into your account and click "invoices" under "my applications." On the next screen, please select the invoice you would like to view. After you select the invoice, you may print only your invoice or print the invoice plus nomination submitted. 

What is the process like? 

After we receive nominations, Crain’s editors hold a series of meetings to determine who will be chosen. We strive to come up with a diverse list that represents a broad spectrum of the fields, companies and organizations we cover.  

When will honorees be notified? 

20 In Their 20s honorees will be notified approximately 5 weeks before publication day. Unfortunately, we are unable to provide status updates until congratulatory letters are sent.  

What is required of those who are selected? 

20 In Their 20s honorees participate in an interview and portrait session with Crain’s editorial team. Declining either of these requests will disqualify the candidate.  

Can you provide feedback on why I was not selected? 

With hundreds of candidates and 20 honorees, we cannot provide feedback on why you were not picked. It likely won't be for one reason and for reasons related to presenting a diverse range of professions and industries. 

Check out our latest 20 In Their 20s class & reach out to Crain's Recognitions Team with additional questions. 

Get alerted when 20 In Their 20s publishes and learn more about the Northeast Ohio Business scene by subscribing to Crain's Cleveland Business newsletters and updating your email preferences here.

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