Celebrating Minority Business Excellence Awards
Purpose
Minority Business Excellence Awards honor outstanding minority business leaders who have demonstrated excellence in their respective fields. The awards recognize individuals and organizations across various sectors who have significantly contributed to the success of their businesses and the empowerment of their communities. Each award category celebrates unique achievements, ensuring that the diversity of talent and impact is acknowledged.
Award Categories
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- Communications
- Nonprofit Leadership
- Health
- Retail/Restaurant
- Community Impact/Service
- Emerging Entrepreneurs
- Construction & Trades
Nomination Process:
Recognition of the 2025 Minority Business Excellence Award recipients will take place at the Celebrating Minority Business Excellence Dinner on Wednesday, November 6, in the Crystal Ballroom at the Lerner, starting at 5:30 P.M.
The nominees must
- be minority owned and operated (at least 51%)
- conduct business or provide service in Elkhart County
Nominations can be submitted via the forms below beginning August 4. All nominations must be received by midnight on September 8, 2025.
Award recipients will be determined by members of the Greater Elkhart Chamber of Commerce Business Diversity Initiative.
To see a list of previous award winners, click here: BDI Award Recipients
Winners will be chosen based on the following category-specific criteria:
Communications
This award recognizes a business in media, public relations, marketing, or communications. The nominee has made significant strides in advancing representation and engagement within minority communities through their communication strategies.
Criteria:
- Demonstrated leadership in shaping and amplifying minority voices.
- Successful implementation of communication campaigns or strategies that have led to tangible results in outreach or business growth.
- Significant community engagement and impact through innovative media, marketing, or public relations approaches.
- Mentorship or contribution to the development of minority professionals in the communications field.
Click here to nominate a business for the Communications Award
Nonprofit Leadership
This award honors an organization or individual who has demonstrated exceptional leadership in a nonprofit organization, helping to advance the mission of the nonprofit and positively impacting the community.
Criteria:
- Leadership in driving the success and mission of a nonprofit organization, particularly one that serves minority communities.
- Demonstrated ability to engage and inspire others within the organization or the broader community.
- Measurable positive impact on the lives of those the nonprofit serves, particularly minorities.
- Innovation in creating sustainable programs or initiatives that address key issues within the community.
Click here to nominate an organization or individual for the Nonprofit Leadership Award
Retail/Restaurant
This award celebrates success, innovation, and cultural representation in the retail or restaurant industry.
Criteria:
- Proven business growth and success
- Innovation in products or culinary offerings
- Employment or mentorship of minority talent
- Community impact through events, partnerships, or outreach
Click here to nominate a business for the Retail/Restaurant Award
Health
This award recognizes a healthcare professional or organization who has made significant contributions to the health and wellness of their community, with a focus on improving access to care or addressing disparities for minority populations.
Criteria:
- Leadership in advancing healthcare services or health outcomes for minority communities.
- Contributions to addressing health disparities or increasing access to healthcare for underserved populations.
- Innovation in healthcare delivery or community health programs.
- Engagement in outreach, education, or advocacy that promotes the well-being of minority populations.
Click here to nominate an individual or organization for the Health Award
Community Impact/Service
This award honors individuals or businesses that have made a measurable difference through service, outreach, or initiatives.
Criteria:
- Creation or support of programs improving quality of life for minorities
- Measurable outcomes in community development
- Long-term commitment to service or advocacy
- Collaboration and leadership in civic or social efforts
Click here to nominate an individual for the Community Impact/Service Award
Emerging Entrepreneur
This award recognizes up-and-coming minority business owners who demonstrate innovation, growth, and community engagement.
Eligibility: Must have been in business for at least one year and no more than five years.
Criteria:
- Business in operation for 1 to 5 years
- Demonstrated early-stage growth and potential for long-term success
- Innovative or impactful business model
- Engagement with the community or efforts to uplift other minority entrepreneurs
Click here to nominate an individual for the Emerging Entrepreneur Award
Construction & Trades
This award honors excellence in construction or skilled trades by a minority-owned business or leader.
Criteria:
- Strong reputation and quality of service in the industry
- Demonstrated business growth or client impact
- Efforts to train, hire, or mentor within minority communities
- Safety, innovation, and commitment to professional standards
Click here to nominate an individual for the Construction and Trades Award