Convincing all employees to enroll in 401(k) programs — and then leverage them to their fullest extent — isn't always easy. But sometimes a nudge in the right direction from a coworker can do wonders. That's the premise of the 401(k) Champion Award.

The sponsors of the fourth annual contest are conducting a national search for three 401(k) participants to be named 401(k) Champions for 2022. The competition opened Sept. 9 — National 401(k) Day, incidentally — and runs through Oct. 20. The three designated 401(k) Champions will receive cash awards of $1,000 each based on an essay submitted online with their answers to these two questions:

1. If you were to advise co-workers on why they should participate in (and/or maximize) their 401(k)s, what would you say?
2. What actions have you taken to inspire non-participants to participate in the 401(k)?

An independent panel of judges will consider applicants' responses and determine the winners.