The American Chamber of Commerce in NZ, a leading voice in fostering robust trade and connectivity between New Zealand and the United States, is proud to announce the official launch of its highly anticipated annual awards program. This year's awards introduce six dynamic new categories designed to recognize and celebrate the innovative businesses and individuals driving the future of the bilateral relationship.

We are delighted to welcome New Zealand legend, Phil Keoghan, as our awards Ambassador. Phil is one of New Zealand’s most successful creative talents on the world stage, earning him numerous awards for his TV shows and films. Phil knows what it takes to succeed in the USA and encourages businesses to enter our awards. 

The expanded categories highlight key growth sectors and strategic areas of cooperation, providing a platform to showcase excellence, ingenuity, and success in the transatlantic marketplace.

The new award categories are:

• Defence, space and security with the USA: Celebrating innovation and collaboration in critical security and aerospace sectors. Sponsored by Lockheed Martin.
  
  
• Innovation and frontier technology (inc fintech) with the USA: Recognizing leadership in cutting-edge technological advancements and financial innovation. Sponsored by Ironside McDonald IP/Buckley Systems.
  
  
• Heath, life sciences & FMCG with the USA: Highlighting achievements in the health, biotechnology, and fast-moving consumer goods industries. Sponsored by ANZ Bank.
  
  
• Sustainable trade and climate with the USA: Honouring contributions to environmental stewardship and the development of sustainable business practices and climate solutions. Sponsored by Insprie Labs.
  
  
• Cultural connections and inclusion (inc Tourism) with the USA: Acknowledging efforts that bridge communities and promote diverse cultural exchange and inclusive practices. Sponsored by United Airlines.
  
  
• Emerging exporter to the USA: Recognizing new and high-growth exporter demonstrating imagination and entrepreneurship in the US market. Sponsored by DHL Express.
  
  
• Investor of the year to or from the USA: Honouring significant investment activity, either  inbound and outbound, that strengthens the economic ties between the two nations. Sponsored by Sweeney Vesty

CLICK ON THE RELEVANT AWARD ABOVE TO DOWNLOAD A COPY OF THE AWARDS APPLICATION FORM & CRITERIA

• We will also present an AmCham  member of the Year award. 

"These new categories reflect the evolving partnerships and opportunities in with the USA, New Zealand’s second largest trading partner ", said Mike Hearn Executive Director, AmCham.

Mark Foy, Managing Director, New Zealand and Pacific Islands at DHL Express, said, “Recognising the next generation of New Zealand businesses driving growth in one of our most important global markets is why DHL Express remains committed to partnering with AmCham for this awards program. The United States continues to be a key trading partner for Kiwi exporters, and we’re seeing strong momentum from innovative, ambitious companies leveraging international logistics to scale faster. We’re proud to support and celebrate those taking bold steps to expand their footprint and strengthen the vital trade connection between New Zealand and the USA.”

Entries for the awards open on 12th May with applications available on our website www.amcham.co.nz 

Entries close on 3^rd July and winners will be announced at a prestigious gala dinner to be held at Pullman Hotel in Auckland on 17^th September - click here for tickets to the dinner.

Lead sponsor- DHL Express
Airline sponsor - United Airlines
Gold sponsors - ANZ Bank, Insprie Labs, Lockheed Martin New Zealand and SweeneyVesty.
Silver sponsors - Ironside McDonald Intellectual Property, Buckley Systems Ltd

Media supporter - The Business.
Wine sponsor - Constellation Brands
Event Manager and sponsor - Event Revolution

See Phil Keoghan's video