Nominations are now open for the 2024 Chamber Awards
Presented by:
The Chamber is excited to recognize the incredible achievements made by our local businesses and organizations during 2024, and we need YOUR help!
DEADLINE FOR NOMINATIONS IS MARCH 17, 2025
Why Nominate?
This is your chance to shine a spotlight on those who are making a difference in our community, driving growth, and demonstrating excellence. Whether it's a business that's growing fast, a leader with a vision, or an organization making a real impact, we want to hear about them!
Anyone can submit a nomination. Nominations must be for a Decatur Regional Chamber of Commerce (DRCC) member business or organization; for individual awards, the nomination must be for an employee of a DRCC member business or organization. Our online Membership Directory has a complete list of our members and can be viewed here.
Review the criteria for each award below and then complete the online form to cast your nomination.
Nominees for a particular award may not have won in that category in the past five years. A list of past winners can be viewed here.
Upon nomination, the individual, business, or organization will be required to complete an informational form detailing how they meet the nomination criteria. The DRCC Chamber Awards Committee will evaluate the submissions, and the entries with the highest scores will be recognized as winners.
Nominate the businesses and individuals who inspired you during 2024 for the following prestigious awards.
Small Business of the Year
The Small Business of the Year Award recognizes outstanding small businesses (10-100 emp.) that exemplified excellence across several key criteria. This award honors those that have demonstrated significant business growth through increased revenue, an expanding customer base, and enhanced market presence or product offerings. Furthermore, nominees must showcase a commitment to community impact by creating jobs, supporting local initiatives, and contributing to economic vitality. Innovation is a critical component, with businesses required to implement novel ideas, technologies, or strategies that set them apart within their industry. Exceptional customer service is also essential, as candidates must provide compelling evidence of customer satisfaction and loyalty. Lastly, strong leadership and a positive workplace culture are paramount, with a focus on inspiring employees and fostering professional development and engagement.
Community Contributor of the Year
The Community Contributor of the Year Award recognizes individuals or organizations that exemplify outstanding dedication to enhancing community well-being through active engagement in local programs and initiatives. This award highlights contributions that stimulate economic growth, including job creation and support for small businesses, while also showcasing a strong commitment to social responsibility through charitable activities and sustainability efforts. Recipients are often seen in leadership roles, driving significant community projects and fostering partnerships with non-profits to address pressing local needs. Additionally, they serve as inspiring role models, positively influencing others to engage in community service and broader participation, thereby cultivating a culture of collaboration and support within their community.
Entrepreneur of the Year
The Entrepreneur of the Year Award recognizes individuals who exemplify exceptional entrepreneurial vision, demonstrating clarity and innovation in their strategic direction and future goals. Nominees are evaluated on their remarkable business growth, evidenced by increased revenue, market share, or the successful pursuit of new opportunities. Furthermore, strong leadership and resilience are essential, showcasing the ability to inspire teams, navigate challenges, and adapt to shifting market conditions. Candidates must also exhibit remarkable innovation through the introduction of creative or disruptive products and services that provide significant value. Their impact on the industry and community is evaluated based on positive contributions, mentorship, and engagement as role models for aspiring entrepreneurs. Ultimately, the award celebrates those who inspire and influence others, fostering a spirit of entrepreneurship and community involvement.
Non-Profit of the Year
The Non-Profit of the Year Award recognizes organizations that exemplify excellence across a range of critical criteria. Awardees demonstrate significant mission impact by effectively achieving their goals and creating measurable benefits for their target communities. They engage deeply with local populations through robust volunteer mobilization and collaborative efforts with stakeholders, fostering a spirit of community involvement. Innovative programming is a hallmark of these organizations, showcasing creative solutions to pressing needs. Financial sustainability is evidenced through sound management practices, successful fundraising initiatives, and efficient resource utilization. Additionally, they contribute to economic growth through job creation and support for local businesses. Their leadership in community projects amplifies their influence, inspiring broad community participation and fostering a culture of collaboration and support.
Chamber Ambassador of the Year
The Chamber Ambassador of the Year Award recognizes an individual who served as a Chamber Ambassador in 2024, and who exemplifies outstanding engagement and participation in Chamber events, consistently demonstrating dedication and a strong presence. This award honors those who significantly contribute to membership growth by actively recruiting and supporting members, thereby fostering a robust and vibrant Chamber community. The recipient showcases strong advocacy for the Chamber's mission and values, promoting its initiatives within the community and among peers. Through demonstrated leadership and mentorship, they guide and inspire fellow ambassadors and members, embodying the qualities of an effective leader. Their impact extends beyond the Chamber, positively influencing the local community through active involvement in programs that align with community goals, contributing to local economic growth, job creation, and support for small businesses. Additionally, the awardee exemplifies social responsibility through a commitment to charitable activities and sustainability efforts, taking on leadership roles in significant community projects and partnerships with non-profits. Ultimately, this individual serves as a role model, inspiring others to engage and contribute, thereby enhancing broader community involvement.
The 2024 Chamber Awards Event will be held on May 8, 2025, at the Country Club of Decatur.
You are cordially invited to the Chamber Awards, a special evening dedicated to honoring the outstanding individuals and organizations that make our community thrive.
Why Attend?
- Celebrate the Nominees: Join us as we recognize the exceptional nominees who have demonstrated remarkable commitment to our community. Their contributions in areas such as community engagement, economic impact, social responsibility, and leadership are truly inspiring.
- Discover Award Winners: Be among the first to find out who will take home the coveted awards! Experience the excitement as we unveil the winners who have made significant strides in enriching our community.
- Network with Influential Leaders: Connect with local business owners, community leaders, and fellow citizens who share your passion for making a difference. This is a fantastic opportunity to build relationships and collaborate.
