Company: ELEV8ORS, Schaumburg, IL
Nomination Submitted by: Elev8ors, LLC
Company Description: Elev8ors, founded by Brian Keltner and Francesca Kenney in 2023, is a groundbreaking virtual networking community that redefines success by focusing on the achievements of its members. Unlike traditional platforms, Elev8ors prioritizes trust-based relationships and collaboration, fostering a global ecosystem where business professionals and entrepreneurs thrive together.
Nomination Category: Company / Organization Categories
Nomination Sub Category: Company of the Year - Diversified Service Industries - Small
 Nomination Title: ELEV8ORS
- Which will you submit for your nomination in this category, a video of up to five (5) minutes in length about the achievements of the nominated organization since January 1 2023, OR written answers to the questions for this category? (Choose one):
Written answers to the questions
- If you are submitting a video of up to five (5) minutes in length, provide the URL of the nominated video here, OR attach it to your entry via the "Add Attachments, Videos, or Links to This Entry" link above, through which you may also upload a copy of your video.
- If you are providing written answers for your submission, you must provide an answer to this first question: Briefly describe the nominated organization: its history and past performance (up to 200 words):
Total 197 words used.
Elev8ors is a trailblazing virtual networking community revolutionizing professional and entrepreneurial connections. Founded in 2024 by Brian Keltner and Francesca Kenney, Elev8ors operates with a “give-first” philosophy, creating an ecosystem rooted in trust and collaboration. Headquartered in Schaumburg, Illinois, it has already connected members globally, welcoming its first international member from Vietnam within its inaugural year.
What sets Elev8ors apart is its diversified suite of services designed to empower its community. Members gain access to impactful workshops like Octave Elevation and Elev8ors Pitch, innovative training such as LunchLifts™, and exclusive mastermind sessions through the Leveling Zone™. The organization hosts dynamic events, including virtual happy hours, Discovery Quest™, and its all-day live seminar, Elev8 U. Additionally, Elev8ors promotes its members' achievements and events, enhancing visibility and celebrating success across its network.
Elev8ors has achieved significant milestones, including the registration of its trademark and the release of The 8 Dimensions of a Business Ecosystem, a framework guiding collaborative success. Recognized on the global stage, Elev8ors earned the Gold Award for Start-Up Venture at the Hermes Creative Awards. With a focus on elevating its members’ growth, Elev8ors redefines networking by measuring its success through their achievements rather than traditional metrics.
- If you are providing written answers for your submission, you must provide an answer to this second question: Outline the organization's achievements since the beginning of 2023 that you wish to bring to the judges' attention (up to 250 words):
Total 232 words used.
Since the start of 2023, Elev8ors has celebrated remarkable accomplishments that solidify its position as an innovator in professional networking. The organization proudly marked its trademark registration with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, formalizing its identity as a leader in fostering trust-based, values-driven connections. This milestone underscores Elev8ors’ long-term vision and sets the stage for sustained global growth.
Another landmark achievement was the release of The 8 Dimensions of a Business Ecosystem, a transformative framework designed to help members build enduring business relationships. This publication established Elev8ors as a thought leader, empowering its community with actionable strategies that emphasize collaboration, creativity, and shared success.
Elev8ors’ excellence was further recognized on the global stage when it earned the prestigious Gold Award for Start-Up Venture at the Hermes Creative Awards. This honor reflects its commitment to meaningful, innovative approaches to networking and its ability to create lasting impact for its members.
Elev8ors also expanded internationally, welcoming its first member from Vietnam in its first year. This milestone highlights its inclusive ethos and capacity to transcend boundaries, fostering a truly global community.
Finally, Elev8ors strengthened its leadership in community engagement with its "give-first" model, achieving high member satisfaction and retention. Through workshops, mentorships, and events, the organization demonstrated that networking, when rooted in trust and collaboration, creates unparalleled growth opportunities. These achievements collectively showcase Elev8ors as a transformational force in the networking sphere.
- If you are providing written answers for your submission, you must provide an answer to this third question: Explain why the achievements you have highlighted are unique or significant. If possible compare the achievements to the performance of other players in your industry and/or to the organization's past performance (up to 250 words):
Total 227 words used.
Elev8ors distinguishes itself as a leader in the networking industry by redefining professional collaboration and innovation. Its official trademark registration solidifies its growing credibility and maturity, a milestone few start-ups achieve so quickly. This reinforces Elev8ors as a trusted and identifiable platform in a competitive global market.
The release of The 8 Dimensions of a Business Ecosystem further sets Elev8ors apart as a thought leader. Unlike traditional platforms that focus on surface-level connections, this framework empowers members to cultivate lasting, collaborative relationships. It provides actionable strategies, contrasting with competitors that prioritize user numbers over meaningful impact.
Winning the Gold Award for Start-Up Venture at the Hermes Creative Awards showcases industry-wide recognition of Elev8ors’ groundbreaking approach. This accolade underscores its dedication to fostering innovative and meaningful professional connections, a standard unmatched by many in their first year of operation.
Elev8ors also demonstrated global reach with its first international member joining from Vietnam, reflecting its inclusive ethos and borderless accessibility. Adding to its diversification, programs such as Risers provide collegiate members with unique pathways to connect, collaborate, and grow early in their professional journeys.
Through its "give-first" philosophy, Elev8ors leads in community engagement, measuring success by member achievements rather than standard growth metrics. Its ability to cultivate trust and foster dynamic relationships establishes Elev8ors as an industry transformation catalyst, setting new benchmarks in inclusivity, purpose, and true professional elevation.
- You have the option to answer this final question: Reference any attachments of supporting materials throughout this nomination and how they provide evidence of the claims you have made in this nomination (up to 250 words):
Total 219 words used.
Elev8ors has established itself as a pioneering force in the networking industry through a series of significant milestones. The official trademark registration, announced via a press release, underscores the organization’s rapid growth, brand maturity, and credibility in a competitive space.
Elev8ors_Small Business World Jounal_Trademark
Elev8ors_ Illinois News Desk_Revolutionary Step Towards Collaborative Business Growth
The release of The 8 Dimensions of a Business Ecosystem framework solidifies Elev8ors’ position as a thought leader, offering a unique, actionable guide for members to build meaningful, collaborative relationships.
Elev8ors_Book_The 8 Dimensions of a Business Ecosystem
Elev8ors’ innovative approach has earned it global acclaim, exemplified by winning the prestigious Gold Award for Start-Up Venture at the Hermes Creative Awards during its first year. This achievement highlights its dedication to delivering impactful, revolutionary networking experiences.
Elev8ors_The Global Tribune_Gold Hermes Award
The launch of the Risers collegiate program showcases Elev8ors’ inclusivity. It equips young professionals with vital skills and networking opportunities to nurture the next generation of leaders.
Elev8ors_ Collegiate Workshop_Risers
Elev8ors' global reach is further demonstrated by welcoming its first international member from Vietnam, illustrating its ability to connect professionals across cultures and geographies.
Elev8ors_Finance News World_ Revolutionary Approach to Networking
These milestones are a testament to Elev8ors' leadership, innovation, and unwavering commitment to transforming professional connections into lasting, impactful relationships.
Elev8ors_Octave Elevation_Workshop
Elev8ors_The 11th Floor_Virtual
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