BUSINESS AWARDS
& ANNUAL BANQUET
Who’s Your Business MVP?
Just like Friday night under the lights, our business community is full of bold plays, breakout moments, and all-star teams. Now’s your chance to shine a spotlight on the businesses that bring grit, growth, and game-winning energy to Winona. Whether they’re a rookie making big moves, a seasoned pro expanding their reach, or a business that always goes the extra yard for the community—nominate your favorites today and help us celebrate their winning season at the Chamber’s Annual Banquet!
2025 AWARD NOMINATIONS
Email your nomination with Criteria listed to Christie at cransom@winonachamber.com
ALL NOMINATIONS DUE OCTOBER 30, 2026
Business of the Year will be awarded to the business that has demonstrated excellence in the areas of economic development, quality workplace, environmental stewardship, community engagement, and continued business success.
Criteria:
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• Must have previously received a chamber award or regional/state or industry award to qualify
• Open to all sizes and types of businesses (must be a chamber member in good standing)
Please provide detailed responses to the following questions. Please feel free to attach/include supporting documents and materials.
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A. Economic Development – Provide details and specifics regarding reinvesting in your property, facilities, equipment, etc.
B. Workforce Development – Provide details and statistics regarding job creation, training programs, and creative ways that you are attracting/retaining employees
C. Business Achievement – What are your company business philosophies? What are the keys to your business success and growth? Include supporting stats.
D. Environmental Awareness – Cite examples of how your company is being a good steward, such as energy saving investments, recycling, and waste reduction.
E. Community Engagement – How is your business supporting and enhancing
the Winona community? What policies are in place to encourage and allow your employees and customers to be involved in the Winona area?
F. Business Awards – Please share with us examples of awards and honors received by your business from the past 5 years. List both the name of the award and the sponsoring organization.
The Rookie of the Year Award honors a standout business or organization in their first 1–3 years of operation. These rookies came ready to play—bringing fresh energy, strong fundamentals, and early success to the field. They’re already making a name for themselves and showing they’re here to compete.
Criteria:
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In operation for 1 to 3 years
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Demonstrates strong business foundation and early momentum
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Shows community engagement, creativity, and forward-thinking
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Brings fresh energy and excitement to the Winona business landscape
The Touchdown Award recognizes a business or organization that executed a major “win” this year—whether through a bold expansion, innovative leap, or strategic move that changed the game. This is for the business that didn't just move the chains—they found the end zone.
Criteria:
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Achieved a major milestone or breakthrough in the past year
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Demonstrated leadership, innovation, or measurable success
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Created positive buzz or economic impact within the community or industry
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Embodies a “big play” mentality—high risk, high reward, high impact