WiRL is proud to continue and expand the WiRL Awards, honoring the leaders of today and tomorrow.
Launched in 2023, WiRL was created as a national community to elevate, educate, and empower women in restaurant leadership. The platform includes digital and print features, a weekly newsletter, a biweekly podcast, monthly webinars, and virtual #WiRLPowerHour happy hours. Its signature annual event, the WiRL Together Summit—held each February in a safe, authentic environment—brings together women from across the industry to connect, learn, build mentorships, and gain career-advancement insights.
The WiRL Awards extend that mission by celebrating women who are driving progress in the restaurant industry—especially those who have not yet been formally recognized.
Nominations for the 2027 WiRL Awards open on October 1, 2026, and close on November 1, 2026.
Winners will be honored during the 2027 WiRL Together Summit in Scottsdale, Arizona, with complimentary access to the event, and will be featured in WiRL’s February special issue and February webinar alongside members of the WiRL Advisory Board.
Award Categories:
- Rising Star—For emerging leaders who are already making waves.
- Trailblazer—Recognizing those transforming the industry, challenging conventions, and driving innovation.
- Community Champion—For those who are the heartbeat of their communities, lifting others up and making a meaningful difference.
- (NEW) Entrepreneur—For women who bet on themselves, launching and growing their own restaurant or brand independently.
Investing in equity, mentorship, and the next generation of women leaders is critical to building a stronger, more inclusive future. The WiRL Awards are open to women working in a restaurant brand or organization at any level of leadership or experience.
Know a woman driving real change in this industry—or is it you? Nominations close on November 1, 2026, and self-nominations are welcome. Don’t wait to submit.
