Groups or individuals from Boone or Winnebago counties can submit videos from 2021 or 2022 to Golden Apple by May 31. Videos should be 2-1/2 minutes in length or less and suitable for family viewing. Golden Apple’s 815 Rising Stars Committee will select the Top 20 rising stars using a rubric considering creativity, originality, quality, presentation, overall appeal and performance.

The FREE VIRTUAL 815 Rising Stars talent show will premiere on July 15, 2022, via a link at goldenappleofrockford.com. The community can vote for their favorite performers by submitting donations online to Golden Apple Foundation from July 15 through noon July 23, with the winner being announced that evening. The top act wins a trophy and $500 in cash; the runner-up receives $250, and the third-place winner receives $100. Groups will split the prize money.