The Emerging Entrepreneur of the Year honors a rising business leader who, within the early stages of their entrepreneurial journey, has already demonstrated remarkable vision, innovation, and leadership. This individual has shown the ability to build and grow a business that is gaining traction in its industry and making a positive impact on its community.

The award celebrates those who, while still establishing their enterprise, exhibit a strong potential for long-term success and sustainability. These entrepreneurs embody the future of enterprise—driven by fresh ideas, passion, and a clear sense of purpose.

Eligibility Criteria:

• The entrepreneur must be the founder or co-founder of the business.
• The business must be in operation for at least three (3) years.
•  Demonstrates:
  • Clear entrepreneurial drive and leadership
  • Notable business    growth    or    milestones achieved in a short span
  • Innovation in product, service, or business model
    Early    impact on       industry, customers, or community

“Innovation need not always be digital.” This award celebrates leaders who bring bold ideas to life, challenge conventions, and champion a culture of continuous improvement and creativity.

Eligibility Criteria:

• The business may be from any industry or sector, with innovation expressed through:
  • Process improvement
  • Product development
  • Organizational transformation
  • Market disruption or new service models
• Must be in operation for at least three (3) years
• Must have demonstrated:
  • Clear innovation impact on their industry, community, or customers
  • Visionary and transformative leadership
  • A  culture of         creativity,         resilience,        and sustainable growth

The Countryside Entrepreneur of the Year aims to honor an outstanding entrepreneur whose business operations are located outside the highly urbanized tri-cities of Cebu City, Mandaue City, and Lapu-Lapu City. This award seeks to recognize individuals who have significantly contributed to local economic development in areas beyond Metro Cebu— strengthening inclusive growth and fostering sustainable enterprises in less urbanized communities.

To qualify as “countryside,” the business must be based in and primarily operating in any of the following:

Northern Cebu Municipalities and Cities: Danao City, Compostela, Liloan, Carmen, Catmon, Sogod, Borbon, Tabogon, Bogo City, San Remigio, Medellin, Daanbantayan, Bantayan, Santa Fe, Madridejos, Tuburan and Tabuelan

Southern Cebu Municipalities and Cities: Minglanilla, San Fernando, Carcar City, Sibonga, Argao, Dalaguete, Alcoy, Boljoon, Oslob, Santander, Ginatilan, Malabuyoc, Alegria, Badian, Moalboal, Alcantara, Ronda, Dumanjug, Barili

 Central Cebu (Western and Mountainous Towns): Balamban, Asturias, Pinamungahan, Toledo City, Aloguinsan, Toledo’s remote barangays outside the city proper

Note on Borderline Cities like Naga and Talisay:

• Talisay City and Naga City are not automatically qualified due to their proximity to Metro Cebu and relatively urbanized status. Their eligibility shall be evaluated on a case-by-case basis using criteria such as:
• Population density
• Economic classification (1st class component city vs. municipality)
• Presence of urban sprawl
• Business location’s actual distance from the tri- cities’ commercial centers

The company/business must have been in operation for at least five (5) years.

The Sustainable Futures Entrepreneur of the Year honors a business individual that exemplifies exceptional commitment to Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles. This award recognizes corporate leaders who embed sustainability at the core of their operations, driving positive environmental outcomes, promoting social well-being, and upholding transparent, ethical governance practices.

Rather than adopting broad Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), this award is intentionally designed to reflect measurable ESG performance, promoting accountability and long-term value creation across the business ecosystem. Eligibility Criteria:

• Open to companies operating for at least five (5) years with consistent performance in ESG areas.
• Must be a member in good standing of the Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
• Environmental (E):
  • Implementation of resource-efficient processes (e.g., energy conservation, waste reduction, carbon footprint management)
  • Use of renewable energy, circular economy practices, or green technologies
  • Clear environmental targets, reporting, or certifications (e.g., ISO 14001, carbon neutrality)
• Social (S):
  • Workplace diversity and inclusion, employee well- being, and community engagement
  • Ethical supply chain practices and responsible labor standards
  • Active programs that contribute to social impact, education, or public health
• Governance (G):
  • Transparent and accountable leadership structures
  • Ethical business practices, compliance with laws, and anti-corruption measures
  • Integration of ESG metrics in business strategy and decision-making