A candidate can be nominated either by a professional peer or by a private researcher. The nominating individual is required to submit basic professional details of the nominee. Self-nominations or nominations influenced by the nominee are not permitted and will be disqualified. Once the nomination is submitted, the review team evaluates it to determine whether the nominee will proceed to the next stage.

Upon approval of the nomination, the selected professional receives an invitation to present a comprehensive overview of their career and contributions. This stage requires submission of a professional summary, a current curriculum vitae (CV), and a written statement articulating the reasons for their consideration as a Global Tech Hero. The statement must include verifiable proof of achievement, innovation, and impact.

Examples of acceptable verifiable evidence include, but are not limited to: Career advancement and leadership roles, High-impact projects or breakthrough innovations, Recognition through industry awards, published works, or granted patents, Documented influence in a specialized domain, Contributions to open-source platforms or academic research, Invitations to speak at local and international tech conferences, Authorship of thought-leadership pieces such as whitepapers, books, or journal articles, Initiatives that foster community growth or mentorship, Development of transformative technologies or digital tools, Creative and practical approaches to solving industry-wide challenges, Registered patents, novel frameworks, or methodologies, Active involvement in structured mentorship programs, Advocacy and initiatives promoting diversity and inclusion in tech, Use of technology to advance social impact causes, Demonstrated commitment to ethical innovation and responsible AI, and Deployment of sustainable technologies and promotion of green practices. These examples serve as critical indicators of the nominee's merit and are essential for assessment.

All complete submissions are reviewed by a panel of independent evaluators. These professionals assess each candidate based on the following weighted criteria:

• Professional Achievements (30 percent)
  
  
• Industry Contribution and Thought Leadership (25 percent)
  
  
• Innovation and Problem-Solving (20 percent)
  
  
• Mentorship and Community Impact (15 percent)
  
  
• Ethical and Sustainable Practices (10 percent)
  
  

Candidates who meet the evaluation benchmark are officially recognized as Global Tech Heroes. The induction includes an informal ceremony where the individual is honored and their contributions are acknowledged within the global tech space. This moment serves as both a personal milestone and a symbolic representation of the professional's enduring legacy in the industry.

To publicly acknowledge each inductee's success, The Connected Awards coordinates media coverage across multiple platforms. This includes press releases, spotlight features, and interviews in leading mainstream publications. Select inductees may be featured in in-depth articles that highlight their personal journey and professional contributions.

The celebration extends to the wider network of The Connected Awards, where inductees are welcomed into a respected global community of innovators and thought leaders. Their achievements are also promoted across social media platforms to inspire others and increase visibility within the tech industry.

Inducted professionals are encouraged to maintain active engagement within the tech ecosystem. This includes mentoring rising professionals, participating in industry initiatives, and contributing to collective efforts that shape the future of technology. Inductees are often invited to serve as evaluators for future applicants, share knowledge at webinars and conferences, and advocate for inclusive practices in tech.

Their commitment to supporting underrepresented groups, driving ethical innovation, and influencing societal development through technology becomes a core part of their responsibility. The Global Tech Hero recognition is not just an accolade but an ongoing pledge to lead by example.