Scoring Rubric

Based on the STARS methodology. Nominees are scored under a unified SPICE-aligned framework in five criteria:

1. Social & Environmental Impact (30%)
2. Leadership & Influence (20%)
3. Innovation & Entrepreneurship (20%)
4. Governance, Accountability & Ethics (20%)
5. Public Engagement (10%)

Each score is weighted in percentage to ensure transparency and fairness.

The Spicy Awards Scorecard

The Spicy Awards celebrate changemakers—be they individuals or organizations—who are leading innovative, ethical, and impactful work for people, planet, and prosperity.

To ensure equity, transparency, and merit-based recognition, each submission will be reviewed by a diverse and independent panel of judges who assess the overall body of work, quality of impact  based on the evidence provided within the nomination form and any supporting documentation. Entries are assessed against a well-rounded set of criteria, with each element weighted based on its relevance to lasting social change, ethical leadership, and sustainability. Public voting is also factored in, offering an opportunity for communities to champion the voices and projects they believe in.

All entries are evaluated using the following five core criteria;

 

Unified Scoring Framework for Individuals and Organizations

Criteria	Description	Weight
1. Social & Environmental Impact	Evidence of positive, measurable impact on society and the environment. Includes efforts in fair treatment, inclusion, climate action, biodiversity restoration, fair wages, equity in practice, and contributions to communities or supply chains.	30%
2. Leadership & Influence	Demonstrated ethical leadership, innovation in approach, strategic influence, mentoring, and the ability to mobilize others around a shared purpose. Includes board or executive roles, campaign involvement, and cross-sector collaboration.	20%
3. Innovation & Entrepreneurship	Integration of bold, creative, or disruptive ideas into initiatives or business models. This includes the development and success of new solutions, services, or systems that are scalable and sustainable.	20%
4. Governance, Accountability & Ethics	Evidence of strong governance, transparency, stakeholder engagement, financial responsibility, inclusivity in decision-making, and fair policy practices. For individuals, includes ethical consistency and authenticity.	20%
5. Public Engagement	People’s choice via online voting. A reflection of community support and resonance of the nominee’s work among peers, beneficiaries, or the wider public.	10%

 

📝 Submission Guidelines

• Open to individuals and organizations of any size or stage from around the globe.
• Self-nomination and third-party nomination are both accepted.
• Anonymous entries are not permitted.
• Supporting documents may be requested, including ID, awards, project reports, letters of recommendation, or professional credentials.
• Judges will assess each nominee’s full contribution, considering both depth and breadth of impact—locally and beyond.—not just the most recent activity.
• Judges will also consider narrative quality, supporting materials, and alignment with the spirit of the award category.

 

 

🏁 Total Possible Score: 100 Points

The Spicy Awards are not just about celebrating impact—they are about identifying and elevating the stories that matter most, especially from the margins. Whether you are an emerging leader or a pioneering institution, your work will be assessed with fairness, care, and integrity.