Youth-Led Social Enterprise of the Year 

This award recognises young founders and leaders (aged 16 – 21) who are driving bold, purpose-led change through enterprise. 

The Queensland Social Enterprise Awards are open to social enterprises with a physical operational presence in Queensland that deliver measurable social or environmental impact through their business model. Eligible organisations must demonstrate that their enterprise exists primarily to create positive community outcomes and reinvests the majority of its profits toward that purpose. Full eligibility requirements and category-specific criteria are outlined within the application platform.

We are looking for youth-led enterprises driven by courage, creativity, and purpose. Founded and led by young people (aged 16–21) who are redefining what leadership looks like. These emerging changemakers are proving that vision and impact aren’t defined by age, but by the passion, insight, and determination to build something that makes a real difference. 

Your application should combine heart, insight, and evidence. The strongest submissions don’t just tell us what you do, they show us the real-world change you’re creating. Use data, milestones, and outcomes to demonstrate your impact, and write as if someone is discovering your enterprise for the very first time. Avoid jargon. Be clear. Let your story shine. 

Every application is carefully reviewed by independent experts from respected organisations. Our judging panel brings deep sector expertise, global perspective, and a genuine commitment to recognising the enterprises and leaders shaping a more resilient, sustainable, and equitable Queensland. Their role is to identify standout achievements, bold ideas, and the purpose-driven organisations pushing our state forward. 

All nominees will respond to five key criteria. Submissions are assessed holistically across these areas, with the following weightings guiding the judging process: 

• Youth Leadership – 25% 
• Innovation & Problem Solving – 20% 
• Early Impact/Traction – 25% 
• Business Model & Viability – 15% 
• Growth Plan & Learning – 15% 

A powerful application tells a clear and compelling story, one that brings your impact, ambition, and momentum to life. We can’t wait to discover yours. 

Follow the steps below to begin your application and showcase the impact, innovation, and purpose behind your work.

Create or log in to your Awards Force account
Register your details or log in using your existing Awards Force account to access the application portal.

Start your application
Select ‘Enter’, then click ‘Start Entry’ to begin a new submission.

Complete all required fields
You can return to your entry as often as you need, as your progress saves automatically. Work through each tab at your own pace. Please note that only fully completed entries can be submitted.

Review the Terms and Conditions
You can access the Terms and Conditions at any time via the sidebar menu within the portal. 

Submitand download your application
Once submitted, you can download a PDF copy of your application for your records.

Apply for multiple categories (optional)
You may submit entries for more than one category, provided you meet the eligibility criteria for each.

Edit your entry before the deadline
You can continue refining your application until 5.30 pm on 17 April 2026.

Support and clarification
If you have questions, please contact the Queensland Social Enterprise Awards team via email here or (07) 3180 1960. 

If we require clarification about your application, we will contact you directly.