Forbes Launches 2026 30 Under 30 Local List for Arizona Leaders

Forbes has announced the expansion of its prestigious 30 Under 30 Local List to Arizona, seeking to recognize the top young leaders in the state. This initiative invites nominations for individuals who are making significant contributions in various fields, including technology, business, art and culture, food, retail, entertainment, and social impact.

The call for nominations is open until 11:59 p.m. ET on February 15, 2026. Individuals eligible for selection must be 29 years old or younger on that date and should not have previously appeared on any Under 30 list. Those who are ultimately selected for the Arizona list will still be eligible for future recognitions in other categories.

Celebrating Local Changemakers

Forbes initially launched the 30 Under 30 Local list in 2023 to spotlight influential figures across ten communities, including cities like Atlanta and Boston. In 2024, the focus shifted to Cincinnati, and last year, Columbus was highlighted. Now, Forbes is keen to uncover the innovators and change-makers in the Grand Canyon State as it prepares for its annual summit in Phoenix.

Nominations are encouraged from both the public and industry insiders. Forbes editors will review online submissions and consult with industry experts and alumni of previous lists to ensure a comprehensive evaluation of candidates.

Candidates will be assessed based on various criteria, including funding, revenue, social impact, scale, creativity, and potential for future growth. The selection process aims to identify those who are not only excelling in their respective fields but also contributing positively to their communities.

How to Nominate

To nominate an individual, prospective nominators can visit the Forbes website, where they will find detailed guidelines on the nomination process. The opportunity to shine a spotlight on Arizona’s young leaders is a chance to celebrate innovation and excellence in the region.

As the deadline approaches, prospective nominators are encouraged to act swiftly to ensure their candidates are considered for this distinguished recognition. The Forbes 30 Under 30 initiative continues to inspire and elevate emerging leaders, fostering a community of talent that shapes the future of industries worldwide.