Criteria
The Nominee is either an equal partner, a 50% (or more) shareholder, or sole owner in a business that has been registered and in operation in Manitoba for a minimum of two consecutive years. Her operation is a full-time venture and from it she draws her main source of income.

From the nominations received, the Judging Panel selects finalists, and subsequently winners, in various award categories. Financial statements of each winner must be made available in a sealed envelope, to the Award auditors. The award auditors are renewed and disclosed to finalists yearly.