Dear Chamber Members,

Who deserves to be named Business of the Year? Help us shine a spotlight on them! Our region is filled with businesses and organizations whose hard work, investment, and community commitment deserve recognition—and nominations close Friday, October 16!

Our 2026 Business of the Year Awards, presented by Staffworks, will take place on Friday, December 11, at the Delta Hotel by Marriott in Utica. Our always-sold-out Holiday Luncheon is one of my favorite Chamber traditions: a room full of people celebrating the businesses and organizations that help our region thrive.

Honorees are chosen based on their commitment to the region, staying power, and Chamber involvement. Think about the businesses that continue to grow, navigate challenges, give back, and actively support our business community.

Awards recognize five categories:

• For-profit businesses with 50 employees or fewer
• For-profit businesses with more than 50 employees
• Nonprofit organizations with 50 employees or fewer
• Nonprofit organizations with more than 50 employees
• Catalyst Rising Business—recognizing a business operating for fewer than five years

Have a deserving business in mind? Submit a nomination by October 16. And mark your calendar for December 11—bring your colleagues, celebrate our finalists, and consider a sponsorship to help make this special holiday tradition possible.

Kari