Maryland is home to some of the most innovative and forward-thinking businesses in the world. They have a positive impact on the economy, environment, and culture in Maryland and the broader Mid-Atlantic region.
Once a year, the World Trade Center Institute (WTCI) and State of Maryland honor the people who make this possible – the steadfast leaders at companies, nonprofit organizations, governments, and academic institutions who are driving growth and global good.
Every year in March, more than 300 business leaders from the Maryland business community – including the Governor of Maryland and 70+ presidents and CEOs – attend the annual awards ceremony.
Annual Attendees
CEOs and Organization Leaders
Award Winners Since 1996
Night Not to be Missed
Governor’s International Leadership Award Winner
David Rubenstein
Co-Founder & Co-Chairman of the Board
Global Visionary
Award Winner
Cindy Wolf
Executive Chef & Owner
2026 International Business Leadership Award Winners
Shyam Kambeyanda
Niccolo de Masi
Kerstin Haskell
Francesco Marra
Dr. Brad Schlaggar
Abhishek Motayed
2026 Leadership Awards Highlights
An incredible evening celebrating global leadership, the WTCI 2026 International Business Leadership Awards brought together innovators, partners, and changemakers for a night of inspiration and recognition. It was a powerful reminder of the impact of international collaboration and the leaders driving it forward. Eight people were honored at the 29th annual awards ceremony, held at the M&T Bank Exchange.
See their stories
Sponsorship Opportunities
The Maryland International Business Leadership Awards is a table only event. To reserve your table and learn about all the benefits of sponsoring this event, contact Jeremy Rosendale or view our Maryland International Business Leadership Awards Info Pack.
$12,000 – Showcase Sponsor
- Eight tickets
- Introduction to past or current award winners (upon request)
- Exhibit table (upon request)
- Option to reserve seats with potential clients/partners
- Post event introductions to fellow attendees (upon request)
- Recognition of your business during the opening remarks
- Premium table placement
- Receive list of registrants and attendees before and after the conference (upon request)
- Inclusion of logo in print and digital marketing materials
- Sponsor ribbon for all employees who attend
- Full page advertisement in event program (if submitted by Feb 28th)
$6,000 – Global Reception Sponsor
- Six tickets
- Option to reserve seats with potential clients/partners
- Better table placement
- Recognition of your business during the opening remarks
- Post-event introductions/connections to fellow attendees (upon request)
- List of registrants and attendees before and after the conference (upon request)
- Inclusion of logo in print and digital marketing materials
- Sponsor ribbon for all employees who attend
- 1/2 Page advertisement in event program (if submitted by Feb 28th)
SOLD OUT
$4,500 – Governor’s Circle Sponsor
- Six tickets
- Inclusion in relevant earned media pitches
- Inclusion of logo in print and digital marketing materials
- Receive list of registrants and attendees before and after the event (upon request)
- Sponsor ribbon for all employees who attend
- Exclusive for WTCI Members
Check Out the Stories From Last Year’s Winners
Each year, we create videos highlighting the award winners’ accomplishments. In addition to being featured at the live event, these short videos are shared with the winners and featured on our website and social media channels. See for yourself the people and companies representing Maryland on the global stage.
Leadership Awards Selection Committee
Tom Regnante
Sylvia Toense
Patrick Roche
Murat Tasel
Karen Korenman
Jose Maciel
Jim Doub
Jessica Reynolds
Brant Matthews
2026 Sponsors
Co-Host
Visionary Sponsor
Signature Sponsor
Title Sponsor
Showcase Sponsor
Global Reception
Winner's Circle
Governors' Circle
Production Partner
