WHEN: August 3, 2026
WHERE: Woolworth Theater in Nashville, TN
WHY: Because It’s Overdue

 Submissions Now Open! April 15th thru June 15th, 2026

SUBMISSION + JUDGING PROCESS 

Please note all submissions are thoughtfully reviewed by a panel of five judges, each who bring deep professional experience across the industry. Through a comprehensive evaluation process, judges carefully assess every entry to determine the top 3 to 5 nominees in each category. Once these 3 to 5 nominees per category are determined, nominees will be notified and there will be a period of time that people can vote for their choice of winners among the nominees. This will then determine 25% of the total evaluation – with 75% being represented from the submission criteria and judges review – to determine the final winner in each category. We encourage thoughtful, thorough submissions that truly reflect your brand, product, or leadership – our judges are paying close attention.  Please also note submissions do not include a ticket to the event. Only those who are recognized as nominees will be provided a ticket. Tickets to the STIMULATE+Awards presented by Nu Sensuelle will be available for individual purchase for all other attendees and available beginning in May 2026. Thank you! 

1. Head-to-Toe Wellness Product of the Year | This award recognizes products that support holistic sexual wellness beyond a single function. Honorees in this category contribute to full-body well-being, from intimacy enhancers to body-safe care. It celebrates solutions that align with a comprehensive, “head-to-toe” approach to sexual health. SUBMIT HERE.

2. Purpose-Driven Innovation Award | This award honors products rooted in a strong mission, whether through health benefits, education, accessibility, inclusivity, or social impact. It recognizes innovation that goes beyond function to create meaningful change. This is where purpose truly meets product. SUBMIT HERE.

3. Pleasure Product of the Year | This category celebrates standout pleasure-focused products across the industry. Winners demonstrate excellence in performance, design, and customer satisfaction. It highlights products that elevate the pleasure experience while resonating strongly at retail. SUBMIT HERE.

4. Best Product for First-Time Exploration | This award highlights entry-level products designed to be approachable, un-intimidating, and educational. It supports sellers in welcoming new customers with confidence while empowering first-time users. These products help make the first step into sexual wellness a positive and comfortable experience. SUBMIT HERE.

5. Best Product for Mature Intimate Care | This category recognizes products thoughtfully designed for aging bodies and evolving needs. From menopause support to accessibility and comfort, these solutions prioritize inclusivity across life stages. It shines a light on often-overlooked consumers seeking continued intimacy and wellness. SUBMIT HERE.

6. Body-Safe + Wellness Innovation Award | This category honors products that raise the standard for safety, quality, and wellness. It includes innovations in materials, formulations, certifications, and health-forward design. Winners demonstrate a commitment to trust, transparency, and consumer well-being. SUBMIT HERE.

7. Emerging Product of the Year | This award spotlights recently launched (within August 2025 to August 2026) products making a strong impact. It celebrates innovation, momentum, and fresh perspectives entering the market. These are the rising forces shaping the future of sexual wellness – whether from a legacy brand or emerging brand – these products will change the future of sexual wellbeing.  SUBMIT HERE.

8. Technology + Innovation Award | This category celebrates forward-thinking advancements where technology meets sexual wellness. From connected devices to digital platforms, it honors innovation shaping the future of intimacy. These solutions push the boundaries of what’s possible in the category.  SUBMIT HERE.

9. Brand Leader of the Year | This award recognizes individuals leading brands with vision, strategy, and measurable industry impact. It honors those driving growth, innovation, and meaningful brand presence. These leaders are shaping how sexual wellness is positioned and perceived and highlight the importance of strong, honest and trusted working relationships. SUBMIT HERE.

10. Emerging Leader of the Year | This category highlights rising professionals making notable contributions across the industry – whether in retail, independent sellers or brand supporters. It celebrates fresh perspectives, leadership potential, and early impact. These individuals represent the future of sexual wellness leadership. SUBMIT HERE.

11. Retail Operator of the Year | This award honors store buyers, decision-makers and store operators that demonstrate excellence in retail execution. It recognizes achievements in merchandising, customer experience, and business performance, as well as bringing a spotlight to the dedicated leadership it takes to successfully achieve retail goals. These leaders set the standard for success when it comes to operating commerce experiences that bring valued connections to consumers, ultimately helping to drive growth in the sexual wellness category at large. SUBMIT HERE.

12. Independent Seller of the Year | This award honors independent sellers who demonstrate excellence in retail execution through platforms that may include home parties, social media, special events and other non-traditional (brick and mortar) retail avenues. It recognizes their achievements in connecting to consumers, scaling revenue and bringing accessibility to products across sexual wellness in their own, independent ways. SUBMIT HERE.

13. Medical Professional of the Year | This category recognizes healthcare professionals advancing sexual wellness through science and care. It includes doctors, therapists, and clinicians bridging the gap between medical insight and product accessibility within sexual wellness through a variety of avenues. These leaders play a critical role in legitimizing and elevating the industry from a consumer and patient perspective alike. SUBMIT HERE.

14. Sex Educator / Therapist of the Year | This award honors educators and / or therapists who empower individuals through knowledge and guidance. Their work plays a vital role in normalization, confidence, and product understanding. It celebrates those making a meaningful impact through education and support within the sexual wellness space at large. SUBMIT HERE.

15. Education Platform of the Year | This category highlights people that prioritize learning, awareness, and empowerment. Whether led by brands, retailers, or individuals, these initiatives elevate knowledge across the industry. It celebrates the role education plays in normalization, growth and overall category support of sexual wellness. SUBMIT HERE. 

16. Podcast Excellence Award | This award recognizes a podcast and it’s host/s that demonstrates outstanding storytelling, audience engagement, and industry impact. Honoring creativity, consistency, and the ability to deliver meaningful, relevant content, this podcast stands out for elevating conversations and inspiring its listeners. From compelling interviews to insightful commentary, the recipient exemplifies excellence in audio content and thought leadership within the category of sexual wellness.  SUBMIT HERE. 

17. Big “O”(vation) Award Founded by NU SENSUELLE | This award celebrates individuals who challenge stigma and push boundaries within sexual wellness. It honors those redefining norms and opening new conversations. These trailblazers are driving progress and reshaping the industry landscape. SUBMIT HERE.

18. Collaboration of the Year | This category recognizes impactful partnerships that drive innovation and growth. From brand and retailer collaborations to work with educators or medical professionals, it celebrates the power of working together. These partnerships are helping to shape a stronger, more connected industry. SUBMIT HERE. 

19. Inclusive Excellence Award | This award recognizes authentic and meaningful efforts in inclusivity. It honors products and / or people through messaging and initiatives that reflect diverse identities and experiences. Winners demonstrate a true commitment to representation and accessibility. SUBMIT HERE. 

20. Business Services Partner of the Year | This category recognizes the essential partners supporting the industry behind the scenes. From logistics and technology providers to insurance support and payment solutions, these business services – and more – are critical to success. It honors those who keep the industry moving forward efficiently and effectively. SUBMIT HERE. 

Submissions must be submitted no later than June 15, 2026.

All questions can be directed to stimulate@retailminded.com.