Nominations
The MidSouth LGBT Chamber of Commerce is proud to partner again with Focus Magazine for the upcoming Focus Awards 2026!
As part of this collaboration, the Chamber will continue its business-focused awards to recognize excellence in the LGBTQ+ business community. These Chamber-hosted awards are separate from the main Focus Awards and are designed to highlight leadership, advocacy, and impact within our local business ecosystem.
Awards Categories
Legacy Award
An organization, person, or community recognized for leaving a lasting and historical impression on our community. Our Publisher and staff award this high honor.
Publisher’s Award
An organization, person, or community recognized for their extraordinary work within the community that has impacted the brand as a whole. This honor is awarded exclusively by the Publisher.
People’s Choice Award
An LGBT person or ally of any age. Nominations will be submitted online. Top vote-getters will be sent to a panel of judges for the final determination of the winner.
Nominations close July 30, 2026 at 12 noon CST
People's Choice Award Nomination
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Champion of the Year
An LGBT person or ally of any age that has helped to make significant impacts in the community. Nominations will be submitted online. Nominees will be sent to a panel of judges for the final determination of the winner.
Heart of Gold Award
This award is presented to an outstanding business or organization that exemplifies values aligned with the Focus mission. Nominees will be sent to a panel of judges for the final determination of the winner.
Trailblazer Award
This award is presented to an up-and-coming person, group, or organization that has set a foundation for the LGBT+ community. Nominees will be sent to a panel of judges for the final determination of the winner.
Performer of the Year
This award is given to an artistic entertainer in the community who has exemplified a sense of mentorship and exuberance for the Memphis arts scene. Nominees will be sent to a panel of judges for the final determination of the winner.
Focus Awards Judged Category Nominations
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Awards Categories
The Visionary Award
Awarded to an LGBT person aged 30 or older whose work has created opportunities, or will have long-lasting benefits in the Mid-South LGBT community.
The Allie Award
An ally of any age whose work has created opportunities, or will have long-lasting benefits in the Mid-South LGBT community.
The Trailblazer Award
Awarded to an LGBT person aged 30 or younger whose work has created opportunities, or will have long-lasting benefits in the Mid-South LGBT community.
The People's Choice Award
An LGBT person or ally of any age. Nominations will be submitted online. Top vote-getters will be sent to a panel of judges for final determination of the winner.
The MidSouth LGBT Chamber of Commerce Awards
The MidSouth LGBT Chamber of Commerce is proud to partner again with Focus Magazine for the upcoming Focus Awards 2026!
As part of this collaboration, the Chamber will continue its business-focused awards to recognize excellence in the LGBTQ+ business community. These Chamber-hosted awards are separate from the main Focus Awards and are designed to highlight leadership, advocacy, and impact within our local business ecosystem.
Buddy Douglas Pioneer Award
Presented to a current or former member, business, organization, or leader whose vision, leadership, and dedication helped establish and strengthen the MidSouth LGBT Chamber of Commerce while creating lasting opportunities for LGBTQ+ businesses across the region.
Bridge Builder Award
Presented to a business, nonprofit, or organization that has demonstrated an outstanding commitment to advancing inclusive economic growth, supporting LGBTQ+ professionals, and strengthening connections throughout the business community.
Advocacy in Business Award
Presented to an individual or organization whose leadership and advocacy have advanced equality, inclusion, and opportunity for LGBTQ+ professionals through business, public policy, community partnerships, or workplace initiatives.
MidSouth LGBT Chamber Business Awards
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