The Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County is excited to announce the upcoming Business of the Year Awards, an annual event that recognizes the outstanding achievements of local businesses. This prestigious ceremony highlights businesses that exemplify the Chamber’s four foundational pillars: Community, Business Development, Leadership, and Entrepreneurship.
Each year, a panel of judges carefully selects businesses that best represent these core values. These businesses not only contribute significantly to the local economy but also demonstrate a commitment to the community and leadership in their respective fields. The awards reflect the Chamber's mission and legacy, showcasing the hard work and dedication of its members.
In addition to the Business of the Year awards, the ceremony also includes individual accolades like the Leading Star Award, an overall recognition known as the Winner’s Circle, and two peer-elected awards: MVP and Ambassador of the Year. These awards celebrate individuals and businesses that have gone above and beyond in their contributions to the Chamber and the community.
The timeline for the Business of the Year Awards stretches from late summer to the ceremony in January. During this period, there is a buzz of excitement as businesses across the membership are celebrated for their achievements. The awards are a way for all businesses to receive recognition, and we encourage every member to participate in some way. With multiple categories and opportunities to be involved, there’s something for everyone.
The Business of the Year Awards began in 2013 and have evolved significantly over the years. We are proud of the system we have today and are confident that it will continue to improve as our businesses and the local business climate change. In another ten years, the awards may look entirely different, but they will always serve as a cornerstone of our Chamber’s efforts to uplift our business community.
One of the unique aspects of this event is the themed ceremony held each January. This year’s theme, "Carnival of Champions," promises to deliver the perfect mix of professionalism and fun—a signature blend that Chamber members have come to expect from our events. While we take great pride in honoring our well-deserving finalists, we also ensure that the atmosphere fosters camaraderie and enjoyment.
Join us in celebrating the remarkable businesses that make Okeechobee a thriving community. Below are the details on how you can participate and be part of this exciting event:
- Category Quiz
- Awards Entry
- Leading Star Entry
- Winner's Circle Entry
- MVP Public Voting (Available later on)
- Tickets to the Event (Available in December)
Stay tuned! We’ve added sponsorship details and photos from the event soon. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to support and celebrate the businesses that make Okeechobee shine!