Chamber still seeks small biz nominations

Van Wert independent/submitted information

Where do are residents like to shop, eat or spend their money locally? The Van Wert Area Chamber of Commerce is hoping local residents let them know by nominating a Van Wert County small business. Nominees will be honored at the 10th annual Salute to Small Business Awards Luncheon, held at noon Friday, November 13, at Willow Bend Country Club.

The Chamber will spotlight businesses built on an entrepreneurial spirit that play a vital role in the Van Wert community and economy. A business’ nomination is a tribute to its leadership and employees. This year, the Chamber will recognize the following seven categories:

Spirit of Entrepreneurship:

An individual or business that demonstrates initiative, resourcefulness, perseverance and profitability. Actively supports community-oriented projects through the use of time and other resources.

Ag Business:

An established agricultural business that demonstrates sound business practices and excellence and a commitment to support community-oriented projects through the use of time and other resources.

Charitable Non-Profit:

A substantiated history of an established Charitable Non-Profit organization 501(c)(3) with a volunteer Board of Trustees or governing body that demonstrates sound business practices, innovation and leadership in offering human services within the Van Wert community.

Service Industry Showcase:

An established business in the service industry such as insurance, legal services or contracting that demonstrates sound business practices, excellence and a commitment to support community-oriented projects through the use of time and other resources.

Retail Champion:

An established retail business that demonstrates sound business practices, excellence and a commitment to support community-oriented projects through the use of time and other resources.

Palate Pleaser:

An established food service or restaurant business that demonstrates sound business practices, excellence and a commitment to support community-oriented projects through the use of time and other resources.

Manufacturing Excellence:

An established manufacturing business that demonstrates sound business practices and leadership within the manufacturing industry based on economic impact, excellence and commitment to support community-oriented projects through the use of time and other resources.

“We’ve been honored for the last 10 years to support this event that recognizes the pivotal role that small businesses play in Van Wert County,” shared Pat Ryan, Senior Vice President/Van Wert City President at Citizens National Bank. “Small business owners support our youth, the arts, and employ our friends and family. These local entrepreneurs are the backbone of our economy.”

Citizens National Bank joins the Times Bulletin Media as sponsors of this year’s program. If you would like an opportunity to sponsor the 2016 Salute to Small Business Awards and Luncheon, please contact the Chamber for information.

The Chamber will accept nominations for the awards until October 23. Deadline to register for the November 13 luncheon is Tuesday, November 10.  To formally nominate a local small business, go to www.vanwertchamber.com for a nomination form or contact the Chamber office at 419.238.4390 or chamber@vanwertchamber.com.