Chamber Of Commerce Seeking Nominations for Industry Appreciation Awards Program

Mar. 27, 2018

The Chamber of Commerce is seeking nominations for the 2018 Industry Appreciation Awards program. This marks the 30th anniversary of the annual program. Nomination forms and the awards criteria are available on the Chamber’s economic development website www.indianrivered.com, at the Chamber building, and from members of the Awards Committee. Nominations are due in to the Chamber office by 5pm Tuesday, July 31. Award recipients are recognized at the Chamber’s annual Industry Appreciation Awards luncheon in September, are highlighted in the Chamber’s e-newsletter, and provided the opportunity for local media spotlights.

“It is important to recognize the achievements of our local businesses and all they add to the quality of life we relish in Indian River County, either through architectural achievements or their impact on our local economy” explains Helene Caseltine, Economic Development Director for the Chamber. She adds, “And, with this being the program’s 30th anniversary, it makes this year’s celebration even more special!”  The Awards program is part of the Chamber’s overall economic development strategy for business retention and expansion.

Categories include awards for new commercial, industrial, and residential construction; commercial redevelopment projects and building renovations, including historic renovations.  Construction projects are recognized for their architectural aesthetics as well as ease of access and the benefit to the immediate area.  Commercial and industrial projects must be substantially completed between 8/1/17 and 7/31/18. 

The Chamber will also honor Entrepreneur of the Year, Manufacturer of the Year, Minority Business of the Year, and Company of the Year. For the 2018 Entrepreneur of the Year, the Awards Committee will consider the entrepreneur’s ingenuity, initiative and risk taken plus their contribution to our community. Those in business less than five years are eligible for nomination under this category.  Considerations for Manufacturer of the Year include the company’s role as a “contributory” business, meaning the company sells or distributes the majority of its products outside the local market.  Additional criteria include:  higher than average wages for their employees; an increase in productivity within the industry; and the company’s economic impact. 

Company of the Year awards have similar criteria with a stronger emphasis on the company’s work environment, its economic impact on our community, and the company’s civic involvement.  Small, medium and large companies are recognized under this category.

The Minority Business of the Year award recognizes a local business that is 51% owned by persons who are members of a particular racial, ethnic, or gender makeup or national origin, as defined by Florida Statute.  This award replaces the Latin Business of the Year award, expanding opportunities to a more diverse business population.

For more information on the 2018 Industry Appreciation Awards nominations, call Helene Caseltine, Economic Development Director with the Indian River County Chamber of Commerce, at 772-567-3491.  All the nomination forms are available on the Chamber’s economic development website, www.indianrivered.com, on the “Business Assistance” page.

The Indian River County Chamber of Commerce is a county-wide organization representing the business community by providing services, benefits and leadership for positive growth and change.