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The Fire Awards: Nominations now open for 2022


American Inno

It’s summer, and it’s getting hot. And we’re not just talking about the weather.

The local innovation economy is also heating up, which can only mean one thing: It’s almost time for our annual Fire Awards.

Nominations are now open for the showcase, in which we evaluate and select the companies and entrepreneurs that have made big moves and big news over the last year.

You have until July 15 to get us your applications. The DC Inno team will review your nominations and our coverage from the past year to determine who makes the 2022 list.

Then a panel of judges will vote for the top contender in each category. Those will be our “blazers” — the trailblazers that have left their marks on the ecosystem.

So, who do we pick? We recognize the founders, funders, ventures and visionaries who raised money, launched products and services, hired up and expanded. We highlight those that changed course, made tough decisions and persevered. We look for the players working to fix the problems, fill the gaps and plug the holes.

We have spotlighted some tremendous companies and individuals in recent years. For a refresher: 2021 class, 2021 blazers, 2020 class, 2020 blazers. And we know, there’s more where that came from.

With that, we invite you to nominate yourselves or others that you think deserve it, and tell us why.


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