The future belongs to
those who can lead
through change.
Are you one of them?
For 17 years, NEXT100 has identified exceptional IT talent destined for the C-suite.
We are now raising the bar to identify leaders ready for the next wave of transformation.
No popularity contests. No politics.
Just a merit-based, comprehensive evaluation developed by CIOs, for future CIOs
2026
Prestige & Leadership
India’s Future-Ready CIO Leaders
NEXT100 is an annual awards program instituted by IT Next and ET Edge – A Times Group that aims to identify 100 experienced IT managers who have the skills, talent and spirit to become CIOs. The awards process invites aspirants to self-nominate themselves for consideration and qualification for the award.
A Legacy of Excellence
Building the pipeline for India's digital future since 2007.
Why NEXT100?
NEXT100 is not just recognition, it is about identifying leaders who will define the future of Indian business. Reimagined for today’s dynamic landscape, it celebrates professionals who combine technical excellence with strategic thinking. Backed by a rigorous, CIO-led evaluation framework, participants are assessed on:
Professional accomplishments
Psychometric assessments
Future-readiness
Jury interactions
Why Recognition Matters?
Join the prestigious community of NEXT100 winners and experience career acceleration that comes with this exclusive recognition:
Get featured in the commemorative NEXT100 book which is circulated to hundreds of premier organizations
Connect with an influential network of senior technology executives
Receive validation from India's top CIOs and technology leaders
Demonstrate your Future-readiness to potential employers and stakeholders
What Makes NEXT100 Different?
The NEXT100 awards program draws on the expertise, contributions and support of India’s CIO community. Senior technology leaders from India’s top companies are involved in the NEXT100 process by determining the selection criteria, interacting with aspirants, approving the final list of award winners.
Unlike other industry recognitions, the NEXT100 evaluation process is comprehensive and merit-based:
Holistic Assessment: Your application is evaluated on professional accomplishments, technical expertise, leadership capabilities, and future potential.
Expert Validation: One-on-one interactions with a jury of accomplished CIOs and technology leaders enables personalized assessment
Scientific Approach: Professional psychometric assessments provide insights into your leadership style and emotional intelligence
Peer Recognition: Recommendations from supervisors and professional references validate your contributions
Jury Panel
India’s leading CIOs and business leaders play a large role in the selection of the NEXT100 award winners. The NEXT100 jury members cumulatively represent hundreds of years of managerial experience and technical expertise. They define the award selection criteria, interview candidates, and approve the list of winners.
The Process
The NEXT100 program follows a rigorous process designed to identify true leadership potential:
01
Application
Fill and submit the online form to provide a summary of your professional experience and achievements.
02
Psychometric Assessment
Take the two online tests to gain valuable insights about your leadership style and emotional intelligence.
03
Professional Validation
Obtain references from your supervisor and self-designated referees.
04
Future-readiness
Answer a simulated business scenario (mini case study).
05
Jury Interaction
Shortlisted candidates will engage with a panel of CIOs for discussions and evaluations.
06
Recognition
Selected winners will receive trophies and citations at an awards ceremony in the presence of top CIOs at the 26th CIO&Leader annual conference.
07
Publication
Winners will be featured in the prestigious NEXT100 commemorative book.
Who Should Apply?
The ideal NEXT100 candidate is:
- A seasoned IT professional with at least 10 years of progressive work experience
- Currently employed full-time in a technology role
- Ready to advance to C-suite responsibilities
- Resident in India
- Has not previously won the NEXT100 award
Why Apply
By applying for the NEXT100 award, you have the opportunity to get recognized as India’s future CIO. Your profile will be featured in a special edition book that will be circulated to India’s top companies. You will also be felicitated with the award in the presence of 100 top CIOs at the 27th CIO&Leader annual conference. Plus, you will get free assessment reports on your personality and leadership traits from Central Test, France.
How To Apply
To apply for the NEXT100 award, register on this website. You can begin your application at any time. Your application and online evaluations must be completed by Saturday, 10th May 2026 (Deadline Extended).
Apply Today!
There is absolutely NO COST to apply. Your application and online psychometric evaluations must be completed by Saturday, 10th May 2026. The AI-Readiness test date will be announced soon. Begin your journey to becoming one of India’s future CIO.
