Licensing International has opened the entry window for its annual Global Rising Stars Awards program.

Every year since 2012, the trade organization has asked the industry to nominate next-gen leaders who exemplify excellence within their companies and in the broader licensing industry through their commitment, passion and innovation. Potential rising stars are accepted from all areas of licensing, including legal, finance, creative and marketing teams.

In terms of other key qualifications, entrants must: be 35 or younger, with three to seven years of licensing experience; demonstrate leadership capabilities, commitment and passion for the industry; show innovation in their work; and seek additional professional development opportunities to improve their skills.

Benefits of becoming a rising star include one year of mentoring with a veteran licensing professional, complimentary access to the Certification of Licensing Studies Program (CLS), key networking opportunities with the past rising stars community, and a feature article in Licensing International’s NewsLinks.

This year’s recipients will be recognized at Licensing International’s Hall of Fame Gala Luncheon on December 4 in New York. 

Last year’s winners were Nelvana licensing manager Rebecca Barlow, IP Business Capital CEO Ololade Oloniyo, Casely head of licensing Jeremy Smith, VeeFriends founder and CEO Alex Locke, Arsenal F.C. licensing manager Leigh Simpson and La Panadería Licensing & Marketing brand manager Fernanda Zimbrón.

Nomination forms can be accessed at licensinginternational.org.