Annual Awards Dinner – Award Criteria

How are the Award Recipients Chosen?

Nominations for the Solo & Small Team, Small Business, Large Business, and Nonprofit of the Year awards are open to both the public and Chamber of Commerce members. After nominations are submitted, the Annual Awards Selection Committee reviews them and selects three finalists in each category. The final vote is then opened to Chamber members, with each Chamber business or organization allowed one vote.

Award Categories Open for Public Nomination:

  1. Solo & Small Team Business of the Year (1-5 employees)
  2. Small Business of the Year (5-25 employees)
  3. Large Business of the Year (26 or more employees)
  4. Nonprofit of the Year

Additional Award Categories:

  • Tourism Business of the Year – Selected by Whatcom County Tourism
  • Chamber Ambassador of the Year – Selected by the Chamber Ambassador Award Committee
  • Young Professional of the Year – Selected by the Top 7 Under 40 Award Committee

Award Descriptions

Solo & Small Team Business of the Year (1-5 employees)

This award recognizes an entrepreneur or business with a small team that has demonstrated exceptional innovation, business performance, and dedication to their customers and community. It celebrates a business that has achieved meaningful success through creativity, resilience, and a strong commitment to excellence while operating with a small team.

Small Business of the Year (6-25 employees)

This award recognizes a small business that has demonstrated exceptional performance across various areas of business operation, including growth, community involvement, and ethical practices. The business should stand out for its resilience, positive impact on the community, and dedication to its employees.

Large Business of the Year (16 or more employees)

This award highlights a larger organization that has demonstrated excellence in business leadership, innovation, community impact, and employee growth. It recognizes a business that balances growth with responsibility and maintains high standards of ethics and integrity.

Nonprofit of the Year

This category recognizes a nonprofit organization that has made a significant impact on its community through programs, outreach, and service. The award honors an organization that exemplifies strong leadership, ethics, and a clear commitment to improving the lives of its beneficiaries.

Criteria for Award Nomination

For Solo & Small Team:

  • Company Management
  • Community Service
  • Economic Stability
  • Ethics and Integrity
  • Community Connection

For Small, and Large Businesses of the Year:

  • Company Management
  • Community Service
  • Economic Stability
  • Ethics and Integrity
  • Growth of Company
  • New Jobs Created for the Community
  • Upward Mobility for Employees

For Nonprofit of the Year:

  • Organization Purpose
  • Contribution to the Community
  • Ethics and Integrity
  • Upward Mobility for Clients