We’ve got a lot to celebrate in the Seattle technology community. And we’ll be doing that in rock-and-roll style as GeekWire hosts one of the most anticipated events of the year: The Seattle 2.0 Startup Awards.

As the hundreds of you who’ve attended in the past already know, this is very much a community-wide effort. So, we’ll need your help as we build up to the big bash — to be held Thursday, May 3 at the EMP Museum in Seattle. Things tip off today with the the official opening of nominations, the first key step toward the fourth annual awards event.

Go here to submit your nominations, in categories including Startup of the Year, Startup CEO of the Year, Hire of the Year, Startup Deal of the Year, Investor of the Year and many more, including some fun new additions such as Geekiest Coffee Shop and Schmoozer of the Year. The nomination period will last only for the next two weeks, so don’t delay in submitting yours.

Cliff Kushler, left, and Mike McSherry of Swype at last year's Seattle 2.0 Startup Awards

After we receive the nominations, they’ll be reviewed by judges and then we will open the final choices up to a vote by the community in mid April. (This is where it helps to have top “schmoozers” on your team).

We will be packing the EMP with the rock stars of tech and partying in signature GeekWire style.  There will be lights, music and cameras … but unlike the Grammy’s, the programming will be short and sweet. GeekWire is proud to be organizing the awards and presenting the show this year as the new home of Seattle 2.0.

After submitting your nominations, make sure to sign up for the event as early-bird rates are in effect through April 8th. Details and tickets for the May 3 bash here.

A big thanks to our sponsors for helping to make this event possible: Filter, PopSalad and Christensen O’Connor Johnson Kindness. For additional sponsor opportunities, please contact Rebecca Lovell at rebecca@geekwire.com.

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