Nominations are now open for CHQ Chamber's 2026 Business Awards, which will honor a variety of local businesses and organizations that are doing outstanding work in the community. Award categories are designed to include businesses and organizations in a number of fields.
One award will be given for Emerging Business of the Year -- a newer or growing business that has demonstrated vision and/or filled a need in Chautauqua County. There are four business sector awards that will recognize outstanding service, production, growth, or community involvement for Hospitality Business of the Year (restaurants, attractions, lodging); Service Business of the Year (retail or service such as financial, insurance, legal, etc.); Producer of the Year (manufacturing, agriculture, or construction); and Not-For-Profit of the Year (an outstanding nonprofit organization). The Business Champion Award will be presented to an organization that has contributed most to the economic development, quality of life, and stability of Chautauqua County. The Business of the Year Award will be presented to a business that has demonstrated outstanding leadership in employee growth, product development or exemplary service.
Nominations are open through July 31st and must be submitted through the Chamber's online form. Award recipients will be recognized at the Chamber's annual Business Awards Banquet on October 8th at SUNY Fredonia. Chamber President and CEO Dan Heitzenrater says preference will be given to nominees that are members of CHQ Chamber, and all information must be complete in the application. Nominations will be reviewed by a committee of volunteers from across the County, including prior years award winners, and will be approved by the Chamber's Board of Directors.
