We appreciate you taking the time to help us celebrate local excellence. Submitting a nomination is a meaningful way to acknowledge the hard work of businesses and organizations in our community. Award categories are outlined below, followed by the nomination form (available during the nomination period).
The SDCC reserves the right to adjust the quantity of awards granted for any category. All achievements described below must have occurred within the Award Year (October 1st, 2025, to September 14th, 2026).
· Business Excellence Award – Recognizes a business showing strong leadership, innovation, and community impact.
Judged on: Customer service; Product/service quality; Innovation and creativity; Growth and accomplishments; Industry expertise; Community involvement.
· Community Impact Award – For non-profits or community organizations making a measurable difference.
Judged on: Program impact; Collaboration; Resourcefulness; Long-term sustainability.
· Employee of the Year – A chance for owners/managers of Chamber member businesses to honour a standout team member.
Judged on: Performance and dedication; Leadership; Problem-solving; Positive influence on colleagues.
· Entrepreneur of the Year – Recognizes a business owner or founder leading with innovation and vision.
Judged on: Business growth and profitability; Market leadership or innovation; Willingness to take risks; Planning for future growth.
· Emerging Business Award – Honours a start-up (0–3 years in operation) with notable growth and potential.
Judged on: Innovation and community involvement; Early success and challenges overcome; Future sustainability.
· Customer Service Excellence Award – The only award decided by public vote.
Criteria: Friendly and helpful service; Product knowledge; After-sales support; Overall customer experience.
Voting period: October 23- November 5, 2025. Votes will be monitored for duplicates or fraudulent activity, and the Chamber reserves the right to remove suspicious entries to ensure fairness.
· Downtown Business Award – Sponsored by the Sussex Downtown Business Association. Recognizes a business that contributes to downtown vitality.
Judged on: Location within downtown boundaries; Participation in downtown events; Storefront appeal; Collaboration with other businesses
Nominations close: Thursday, October 8th, 2026 at Noon