Give your favorite indie businesses and artists the recognition they deserve!
 Nominations are open from March 6 - 31.
Make ​as many nominations as you wish! 

Nominees must be
1) an independent for-profit business based in Oakland OR
2) a visual artist/artisan who lives or has a studio in Oakland.

​Winners are announced at the Oakland Indie Awards on Thursday, May 18, 2017. Get your tickets now! 
Submit your nominations below or click the button below to open a new browser window.

Nominations are accepted for the following award categories:

Oakland Soul: Represents the soul, essence and spirit of Oakland. This business or artist appreciates diversity and creativity, is confident in their individuality and humbly supports their brothers and sisters.
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Innovative Newcomer: A business or artist who started in the last three years that excites and inspires with a creative new idea, perspective, model or solution.

High Road Employer: This model employer puts people before profit by providing quality jobs, fostering a positive work environment, and championing beneficial business practices.

​Pillar: A long-established Oakland business or artist with deep roots in the community and long-standing ties to the people, culture and history of The Town. This person or business mentors newbies and is renowned for their contributions to Oakland’s living history.

Youth Opportunity: This independent business or artist creates job pathways for young adults through internships and jobs, giving them the skills, experience, and mentoring they need to thrive in the workforce.

Greenie: An environmental champion who works to improve our community through sustainable practices, products or services. This local business or individual reduces waste or consumption, creates green products or provides green services.

Ripple Effect: A business that supports the local economy by buying supplies and services from other local vendors, creating a “ripple effect” as money circulates within the community.

​Social Changemaker: This socially responsible business or individual incorporates positive social change into their mission, operations, and/or measures of success. They use creative approaches to give back to the community and address economic and environmental issues.