BUSINESS AWARDS & ANNUAL BANQUET
Who’s Leveling Up Business in Winona?
Game on, Winona! Our business community is filled with game changers, high scorers, and powerhouse players who are taking success to the next level! From new businesses making their debut to established businesses breaking records, unlocking new opportunities, and powering up our community, there’s no shortage of achievements worth celebrating. Now it’s your turn to PRESS START and nominate the businesses that are changing the game! Help us recognize the innovators, risk-takers, and community champions who make Winona a winning place to do business.
The next high score belongs to someone amazing. Who will you nominate?
2026 AWARD NOMINATIONS
Email your nomination with Criteria listed to Christie at cransom@winonachamber.com
ALL NOMINATIONS DUE NOVEMBER 6, 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
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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.
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 Community Power-Up Award honors a business or organization that goes above and beyond to make the Winona area a better place to live, work, and play. These community champions aren't just focused on their own high scores. They're helping everyone level up! Through generosity, volunteerism, partnerships, and community involvement, they're powering up positive change and proving that when businesses give back, everyone wins.
Criteria:
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Demonstrates a strong commitment to community involvement and giving back
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Actively supports local initiatives, nonprofits, events, or community programs
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Encourages employee volunteerism, partnerships, and community engagement
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Makes a meaningful and positive impact on the Winona area
The New Player Award honors a standout business or organization in its first 1–3 years of operation. These newcomers didn't just press start. They came ready to play! Bringing fresh ideas, entrepreneurial energy, and a determination to succeed, they're already making their mark on the Winona business landscape. They're proving that you don't have to be in the game long to start racking up achievements!
Criteria:
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In operation for 1 to 3 years
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Demonstrates a strong business foundation and early momentum
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Shows innovation, creativity, and potential for continued growth
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Brings fresh energy, community engagement, and new opportunities to the Winona area