Nominate an Emerging Leader: 2023 Firestarter Award

Nominations for the 2023 Firestarter Award are open! 

Presented in partnership by the League of Women in Government (LWG) and Polco, the Firestarter Award and scholarship highlights a woman who is an emerging leader within the local government profession. First announced in 2023, this award celebrates potential for leadership as well as significant contributions to community and the field of public administration. 

To submit a nomination, fill out and submit the form below. Show how your nominee is already making significant impacts on the profession and makes an ideal candidate for the award. A panel of judges from LWG and Polco will review each nomination to select one award recipient. The winner will also receive a $1,000 scholarship (from Polco) for professional development.

The inaugural Firestarter Award and scholarship will be presented at the 2023 International City/County Management Association (ICMA) Annual Conference in Austin, Texas on 9/30/23 - 10/4/23. 

Eligibility Criteria 

• Nomination forms may be submitted by a colleague or you may nominate yourself
• Nominees are currently working in the local government field. 
• Nominees must have served less than eight years in a local government role.
• LWG board members are not eligible.
• We encourage nominees to attend the ICMA conference, so the winner can receive her award in-person.