The Annual Banquet hosted by the Clinton-Sampson Chamber of Commerce is a highly anticipated event that brings together businesses, non-profits, and community organizations for an evening of celebration and recognition. Attendees gather in a festive atmosphere to enjoy cocktails, food, and camaraderie. The banquet features the acknowledgment of outstanding contributions and achievements, with awards presented in various categories (see below).
Distinguished guests and speakers add a special touch to the event, sharing insights and inspiring the community with their words. The Annual Banquet serves as a platform to honor exemplary individuals, businesses, and organizations that have made significant contributions to the growth and vitality of the Clinton-Sampson community.
Beyond the formalities, the banquet provides a valuable opportunity for networking, fostering connections, and strengthening the bonds that contribute to the overall prosperity of the community. Whether recognizing business leaders, community advocates, or emerging talents, the Annual Banquet is a cornerstone event that highlights the collaborative spirit and shared commitment to building a thriving and interconnected Clinton-Sampson community.
Don’t miss this year’s Annual Banquet! Register HERE.
Annual Awards: Eligibility and Evaluation Criteria
Any individual who owns and operates or bears principal responsibility for operating a business may be nominated. Partners who, jointly own and operate a business may be nominated as a “team,’” so long as the number of individuals in the team nomination does not exceed four.
A business professional that has demonstrated exceptional success in the ownership or management of a business through leadership, exemplary customer service, and community engagement.
Over the year, this individual has accomplished outstanding achievements as well as a broad and substantial impact on our community.
Voluntary efforts beyond business and professional responsibility to assist the community, promote economic stability and enhance growth through his/her support of other businesses.
BUSINESS EXCELLENCE
Staying power: a substantiated history as an established business of at least ten (10) years.
Indication of continued growth as it relates to sales volume and employee base.
Response to adversity: ability to face and solve economic problems.
Contributions by nominee to aid community-oriented projects, evidence of the use of personal time and resources.
ENTREPRENEURIAL SUCCESS
A business that exemplifies exceptional entrepreneurial spirit through creativity, innovation, and determination.
Demonstrates a commitment to pushing boundaries, embracing risks, and creating unique solutions to challenges.
Success in overcoming obstacles while staying true to entrepreneurial goals.
NEW BUSINESS OF THE YEAR
A business that has recently made a splash into the community or is making waves across the region, state or country.
This business has introduced new ideas, products, or services that address a community need or stand out in the marketplace.
The business is a current Chamber member having been in operation for no more than three (3) years at the time of award application.
MEMBER OF THE YEAR
Special recognition of an individual among the membership or their representatives that has made significant improvements or special impact to the Community, the Chamber or efforts toward promoting the mission of our organization.
Selected by the Executive Committee of the Board of Directors (Chair, Vice Chair, Treasurer, Executive Director).
HOW ARE THE WINNERS CHOSEN?
In efforts to increase the objectivity of our award recipient selection process, all nominations will be submitted to a blind panel of chamber executives from outside the community to judge the entries and select winners. Accordingly, all identifying information associated with the nominee for an award shall be removed before application packets are sent to the panel for review.
All nominees must be current members in good standing with the Clinton-Sampson Chamber of Commerce for a minimum of two (2) years. Awards may be presented on a case-by-case basis.
Presentation of awards will take place in March of each year during our Annual Banquet.
