North Carolina’s “Academy Awards” program for technology is getting a new name from the North Carolina Technology Association.

A wide variety of individuals and companies will receive “Beacon” honors as “21 Awards” – the premier honor program for the state’s technology industry – disappears.

The annual program is changing its name to “NC Tech Awards.”

After a run of more than 20 years, “21 Awards” is out – and a lot more than 21 honors are scheduled to be given out.

“It has consistently grown over the years, both in the number of nominations, the geographical diversity of winners and size of the Gala, where the winners are recognized.This year, we have taken the next step in the awards program’s growth,rebranding it as the NC Tech Awards,” NCTA says in disclosing the name change.

“Under its new name, the NC Tech Awards will not be bound by a specific number of categories and be the statewide technology awards program. Each award, known as The Beacon, will be a shining example of tech sector’s vibrancy.”

Nominations are open through August 15, and winners will be disclosed at a banquet in Raleigh at the Convention Center on Nov. 6.

Here’s a look at the categories for nominations:

  • Software
  • Communications Technology
  • Industry Driven
  • Innovative product
  • Best Consumer Web Company
  • Digital marketing
  • New Media/Digital
  • Best Place to Work
  • Fast Growth Small
  • Fast growth Large
  • Top Ten Startups to Watch
  • Big Value
  • Civic Good
  • Customer Service
  • eCommerce
  • Education
  • Energy and Environment
  • Finance and Banking
  • Health and Wellness
  • Tech Executive
  • Chief Information Officer
  • Tech Educator
  • Tech Woman of the Year
  • Public Leader
  • Beacon (Outstanding Achievement)

For more details and nomination information, get details online.