Celebrating Minority Business Excellence Awards
Purpose
Minority Business Excellence Awards honor outstanding minority owned businesses or 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. To be eligible for consideration, businesses or organizations must have been in operation for a minimum of one year prior to nomination.
Award Categories
-
- Business Excellence
- Nonprofit Leadership
- Community Impact/Service
Nomination Process:
Recognition of the 2026 Minority Business Excellence Award recipients will take place at the Celebrating Minority Business Excellence Dinner on Thursday, September 10, 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 July 1. All nominations must be received by midnight on August 3, 2026.
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:
Business Excellence
This award recognizes a business that demonstrates outstanding leadership, innovation, and growth while fostering inclusive opportunities and contributing to the advancement of a diverse and thriving business community. Up to five businesses will be recognized annually for exemplifying excellence in business leadership, innovation, workforce development, and inclusive business practices.
Criteria:
- Demonstrated business success through sustained growth, operational excellence, or significant achievements within their industry.
- Exemplifies strong leadership and innovation through creative solutions, products, services, or business practices.
- Demonstrates a commitment to diversity, inclusion, and creating opportunities for historically underrepresented individuals and communities.
- Invests in workforce development through mentorship, professional growth opportunities, and the cultivation of future leaders.
Click here to nominate a business for the Business Excellence 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
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 their community
- 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