Application process:

Applicants can only enter on behalf of themselves. 

The application process has been redesigned to attract diverse candidates by accepting multiple different formats: text, video, audio and interview. 

Applicants should focus on delivering clear, evidence-based answers that show measurable impact, strong leadership, and alignment between technology and business goals. They should demonstrate how they shaped culture, collaboration, and strategic direction through specific actions rather than broad statements. Finally, submissions should highlight standout achievements with concise examples that showcase meaningful outcomes and what differentiates their leadership.

To read the full guidance for applying, please view the
Guidance Criteria Document.

You can also view the questions to view at a glance.

If you have any questions regarding your application, please email
events-uk@foundryco.com and a member of our awards team will get back to you as soon as possible.

Application criteria:

Applicants must operate at the highest level of technology and transformation strategy and delivery. CIO 100 recognises leaders who shape organisational direction, contribute to board‑level decisions, and influence major technology investments.

The applicant must also have been at their current organisation for one year up until the date CIO 100 submissions open. 

Consultants, IT vendors, software/hardware suppliers and market research or information services companies will not be eligible for the CIO 100. Additionally, individuals currently applying for 2026 Next CIO or 2025 Next CIO and Next CSO cohort members will not be considered.

We welcome the use of AI in preparing applications. However, judges will take its role into account during evaluation. While AI may support the process, the CIO 100 criteria prioritises authentic personal contribution, leadership, and impact. Submissions should clearly reflect the applicant’s own work and achievements.

Applications will not be published and only shared with the judging committee.

Entry deadline: 21 May 2026

• AI & Intelligent Automation
• Championing Environmental Sustainability
• Advancing Social Sustainability & Inclusion
• People, Culture & Collaboration
• Innovation & Digital Excellence

• CIO of the Year – Presented by Headline Sponsor
• Future Talent & Workforce Development
• Visionary Leadership in Technology
• Strategic Partnerships & Ecosystem Collaboration

Next CIO recognises and celebrates the biggest rising stars in the UK IT sector.

Next CIO is the annual awards and mentoring programme helping aspiring IT leaders to develop their careers, build their network and improve their skillsets.

This is an opportunity for aspiring digital, data and technology leaders to join an exclusive community that supports inclusion, career development and progress, and for current CIOs and business leaders to reward their colleagues and peers on what they have achieved.

How to apply:

Award submissions can be made directly or on behalf of an individual, such as from a line manager or senior executive (for example, an organisation’s CIO or CTO).

All entries will be reviewed by an expert judging panel and the winners will be announced at the live awards ceremony, which will take place in London on 24th September 2026.

Next CIO winners will be listed on the CIO website, featured in articles written by CIO editors, and be provided with graphics to support promotions through their own channels. They will also be eligible for mentoring and coaching provided by our judging panel and former CIO 100 members.

Entry deadline: 19 June 2026