*Purpose
The purpose of the Chamber Small Business Awards is to recognize the achievements of small businesses in Reno County, and to honor their significant contributions as drivers of economic growth and job creation in our community.
*Nomination Process
Nominations for the Small Business Award can be made by any group or individual. Self nominations are allowed. Nominations must be submitted on the official nomination form (above). Nominations are accepted throughout the year.
*Award Nomination Criteria
• Business is a member of the Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce
• Business has been in operation for at least three years
• Business has 1-40 employees
• Business must complete the award application form
• Monthly winner must be able to attend a Chamber Membership Breakfast to accept
award.
• Annual winner must be able to attend the Chamber Annual Meeting to accept
award.
*Selection Process
A member of the Chamber Small Business Council will deliver an application to each eligible nominated business and assist with the completion of the form. The Chamber Small Business Council will determine the monthly Small Business Award recipient. Scores will be based on responses to the six questions on the award application. Each response will be scored on a scale from 1 – 5 according to the following ratings:
1 = needs improvement
2 = below average
3 = average
4 = good
5 = excellent
Scores given by each Small Business Council member will be added and averaged together to assign each business a score between 6 and 30. The business with the highest score will receive that month’s Small Business Award. Businesses that receive a score over 20 will continue to be considered for the award for the remaining months of the year.
The Small Business of the Year Award will be determined by a selection committee consisting of representatives from the Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce and The Hutchinson News. The winner will be chosen from the monthly award recipients.
*Recognition
The Hutchinson News will include a feature article of the monthly Small Business Award winner in the business section of the paper. The business will also be featured in the Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce monthly e-newsletter. Award winners will be presented with a certificate at a Chamber membership breakfast. Monthly recipients will be included in an expanded section of The Hutchinson News that celebrates small business, to be published in January 2012.
*Additional Information
For additional information, contact the Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce by calling 620-662-3391 or by email at MarcyK@HutchChamber.com
