Golden Aurora 2026: Call for nominees

Business Angels Europe is proud to launch the open call for nominees for the Golden Aurora Award 2026, celebrating Europe’s most impactful female business angels. Since 2018, this prestigious award has honoured women investors who are shaping the future of innovation, entrepreneurship, and impact investing across Europe. Past winners include inspiring leaders such as Cintia Mano (2025), Annegien Blokpoel (2024), and Mary McKenna (2023). The award continues to spotlight women investors driving innovation and shaping Europe’s entrepreneurial future.

Who Can Be Nominated?

BAE is calling for female business angels with proven track records in early-stage investing, mentorship, syndication of international investments, and support for female founders. Ideal candidates are those who actively invest in startups, serve as role models for fellow investors, and leverage their expertise and networks to create positive societal impact.

How to Nominate

Interested nominees should submit their applications by 19 March 2026, 12:00 CET via this Golden Aurora Award 2026 Google Form.

After the initial nomination phase, the jury will select one nominee per country by the end of March. These national nominees will then be invited to submit a personal nomination dossier for final evaluation.

Award Ceremony

The Golden Aurora Award 2026 Ceremony will take place on 14 May 2026 at the SIM Conference 2026 in Porto, Portugal. The SIM Conference, a flagship event of the Portuguese innovation ecosystem, connects entrepreneurs, startups, and investors from across Europe, providing a unique opportunity to celebrate the winner, explore the Portuguese innovation landscape, and network with high-potential startups. Attendance of all national nominees is required to be eligible for the award.

The ceremony will be hosted by Cintia Mano, previous award winner and current jury member, alongside Investors Portugal and Startup Portugal, ensuring a celebration that reflects the vibrancy of Europe’s investment ecosystem.

Timeline

Date 2026	Action
19 March	Deadline to submit candidatures
31 March	Jury Phase 1 – National Nominees announced
29 April	Deadline for nominee dossiers submission
14 May	Golden Aurora Award Ceremony in Porto

Are you the next European business angel of the year 2026?

Are you an exceptional female business angel shaping Europe’s innovation ecosystem? Or do you know one who deserves recognition? Nominate yourself or a peer today! Submit your application via the Golden Aurora Award 2026 Google Form before 19 March 2026, 12:00 CET, and help shine a light on Europe’s outstanding female investors.

For more information, contact chiara.davalli@businessangelseurope.com