Awards FAQs

Q: Where can I find the application forms?

A: You can download the forms by clicking the award category links above or email Will Thomae at Will.Thomae@ssonetwork.com.

Q: How do I submit my application?

A: Be sure to follow the instructions outlined in the application, then email your completed form to Will.Thomae@ssonetwork.com. 

Q: Is there a fee to apply?

A: No, submitting is completely free. We welcome all organizations to take part!

Q: How many categories can I apply for?

A: You can apply for up to three award categories per company. No exceptions.

Q: What criteria will judges use to evaluate my submission?

A: Submissions are assessed across five key areas:

– Overview

– Strategy

– Methodology

– Results Achieved

– Challenges Overcome

Q: I'm a vendor—can I still apply?

A: Yes! However, if you're applying outside of the Technology of the Year or Service Provider of the Year categories, you'll need to include a named client in your submission. Clients will be followed up with to confirm their collaboration.

Q: I’m a solution provider with an internal shared services team. Do I still need to name a client?

A: Yes, you do. If you’re unsure, feel free to reach out to Will.Thomae@ssonetwork.com for clarification.

Q: I’m based outside North America. Can I still enter?

A: Yes, as long as your Shared Services or GBS operation serves North America and has some level of representation here.

Q: What happens if I'm selected as a finalist?

A: Finalists are invited to attend the Black-Tie Awards Gala on March 18th and should prepare a short (2-minute) acceptance speech. Finalists who are unable to attend the gala will be disqualified.

Q: What’s the deadline to submit?

A: All applications must be submitted by Friday, January 16th, 2026.

Q: When will I know if I’ve been selected as a finalist?

A: Finalists will be announced on Wednesday, February 18th, 2026 via email and shared on our SSON channels.

Q: Will I receive feedback on my submission?

A: To ensure fairness and confidentiality, we will not provide individual feedback or scores.

Q: Does my free ticket cover the full SSOW conference?

A: Your free ticket gives you access to the Black-Tie Awards Gala only. Conference sessions require a separate registration.

Q: If my company is a finalist in more than one category, do we get extra tickets?

A: Each company receives one complimentary gala ticket regardless of the number of categories they are a finalist in. This ticket does not include access to the SSOW conference.

Q: Can I attend the Gala even if I’m not submitting?

A: Definitely! We’d love to see you there. Individual tickets are $249 or reserve a table for 10 for $2,500. Secure your spot here.

Q: Can I update my submission after sending it?

A: Yes—if it's before the deadline. Just send your revised form to Will.Thomae@ssonetwork.com and let us know it’s an update.

Q: Can I reuse content from a previous year’s submission?

A: You can, but only if your initiatives are ongoing. Be sure to update with any new progress or results achieved since last time.

Q: What timeline of project can I submit?

A: Your project must have either launched in 2025 or be an ongoing initiative with meaningful progress or new results in 2025. We're looking to celebrate recent and forward-moving achievements—so be sure your submission reflects current impact or innovation.