Celebrating Minority Business Excellence Awards
Purpose
The purpose of the awards is to honor outstanding minority business leaders who have demonstrated excellence in their respective fields. This awards ceremony recognizes 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
- Restaurant
- Health
- Retail
- Service
- Community Impact
Nomination Process:
Recognition of the 2024 Minority Business Excellence Award recipients will take place at the Celebrating Minority Business Excellence Dinner on Wednesday, November 13, 2024, 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 (work in) service in Elkhart County
Nominations can be submitted via the forms below. All nominations must be received by Midnight on Friday, October 25, 2024.
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
Restaurant
This award celebrates a business in the culinary or restaurant industry who has showcased innovation, business success, and a commitment to cultural representation and community impact.
Criteria:
- Proven track record of business growth and success in the restaurant industry.
- Innovation in culinary offerings, especially those that highlight cultural heritage or diverse flavors.
- Demonstrated commitment to employing and uplifting minority communities through hiring practices, mentorship, or outreach.
- Positive contributions to the community through culinary initiatives, partnerships, or charitable efforts.
Click here to nominate a business for the 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
Retail
This award is given to a business in the retail industry who has demonstrated excellence in customer service, business growth, and community involvement.
Criteria:
- Excellence in providing outstanding customer service and fostering a positive shopping experience.
- Demonstrated business growth and success in the retail industry through innovation or operational improvements.
- Meaningful contributions to the community through charitable activities, mentorship, or partnerships.
- A commitment to hiring, mentoring, or empowering minority professionals within the retail industry.
Click here to nominate a business for the Retail Award
Service
This award is given to an individual or business in the service industry who has demonstrated excellence in customer service, business growth, and community involvement. Examples of services include personal, business, automotive, legal, educational, social, and financial.
Criteria:
- Excellence in providing outstanding service, with a focus on customer satisfaction and business success.
- Demonstrated growth within the service industry through innovation and operational improvements.
- Meaningful contributions to the community through charitable activities, mentorship, or partnerships.
- A commitment to hiring, mentoring, or empowering minority professionals within the service industry.
Click here to nominate an individual or business for the Service Award
Community Impact
This award honors an individual that has made a measurable difference in the community through outreach, volunteerism, or initiatives that improve the quality of life for minority communities.
Criteria:
- Leadership in creating or supporting programs that significantly benefit minority communities.
- Measurable outcomes in terms of community improvement, outreach, or empowerment of minority groups.
- Long-term commitment to community service or advocacy.
- A proven track record of fostering collaboration and positive change through civic or social initiatives.
Click here to nominate an individual for the Community Impact Award