In a world of headlines, remember greatness in our community’s unassuming corners. The GFX2023 Backyard Awards Luncheon, organized by the Growth Factory and powered by Stoel Rives, spotlight local heroes who drive change in our own backyard.
An Avenue for Recognition: The Backyard Awards
The awards credit those shaping progress, the unsung heroes of Greater Sacramento. From startups to leaders, mentors to innovators, they stand out not just for success, but for commitment to positive change.
A Range of Recognitions
The Backyard Awards includes a diverse range of categories covering different aspects of our vibrant ecosystem:
Individual Distinctions:
- GOLDEN GEAR (aka Backyard Love): Most inspiring or impactful startup founder or business, civic or community leader who is driving transformative work related to the startup and venture ecosystem with LOVE.
- SAGE AWARD: Advisors, mentors, and experts who make everyone around them better by generously sharing their knowledge and making connections. They are tireless in their investment of meaningful time and intellectual and social capital.
Corporate Recognition:
- CORPORATE INNOVATION: Local corporations who are building or sourcing disruptive innovation to drive business outcomes and contribute to regional competitiveness.
- ECOSYSTEM BUILDER AWARD: Companies or organizations that invest with money, time, and resources in building the entrepreneurial ecosystem to benefit all founders and our region.
Investor Appreciation:
- INVESTOR OF THE YEAR: Individual or Fund that has made significant investments through money or time in “Backyard” companies.
Startup Spotlight:
- BREAKTHROUGH INNOVATION: Celebrating impactful companies delivering innovative solutions to important problems and building high performing teams with a strong local presence.
- EARLY STAGE: Celebrating Traction up to Series A as measured by revenue, team growth, fundraising success and local offices, local team members. Must have product in market with paying customers demonstrating meaningful revenue and user growth.
- GROWTH STAGE: Celebrating growth beyond Series A as measured by revenue and team growth, fundraising success, local impact, global reach, CAP table – must meet minimum ARR and money raised to qualify.
- EXIT OF THE YEAR: Celebrating wins of companies that have grown here from early days. This will be a year-by-year call depending on if there are compelling candidates.
- ACQUISITION OF THE YEAR: Big Deal of the year
Join the Celebration!
The Backyard Awards invite everyone to participate in this celebration of local achievements. Anyone may nominate the individuals and organizations who are making a meaningful impact. The nomination window closes on August 25, 2023. Nominees should have a significant presence in the Greater Sacramento region, spanning across El Dorado, Placer, Sacramento, Sutter, Amador, Nevada, Yolo, and Yuba Counties. Make your nominations here.
A Luncheon of Gratitude and Community
Mark your calendars for the awards luncheon, happening on October 5 from 11:00 AM-1:00 PM, @thegrounds, Roseville. It’s not about elaborate fanfare. It’s about coming together to celebrate the true champions of our backyard. Lunch will be provided by Raley’s. Register for the Awards luncheon here.
A Toast to Local Heroes
The Backyard Awards stand as a testament to the fact that real change, real impact, often begins right at home. It’s about honoring the unsung heroes who, with their dedication and passion, shape the destiny of our region. So, let’s raise a toast to those who make our backyard a better place and celebrate their contributions with sincerity and gratitude. Learn more here.
Check out additional events for founders in the Greater Sacramento region here.
