Annual Community Excellence Awards
Recognizing businesses, community organizations, and individuals who have excelled at serving our community.
2026 Award Nominations open throughout 2025, until Friday, November 28th
About the Annual Community Excellence Awards
Kristen Owens (right) - 2025 Individual of the Year Award Winner
The Kent County Chamber of Commerce Community Excellence Awards is an annual celebration that honors outstanding contributions to our community in three distinct categories: Business of the Year, Organization of the Year, and Individual of the Year.
Nomination Details
The Community Excellence Awards ceremony is a testament to the spirit of collaboration and dedication that defines Kent County. Nominees are carefully evaluated to consider factors such as leadership, innovation, community involvement, and the overall positive influence on the local community.
1. Business of the Year: This category recognizes a local business that has demonstrated exceptional success, innovation, and positive impact on the Kent County community. Whether through job creation, economic development, or a commitment to corporate social responsibility, the Business of the Year sets a standard for excellence and serves as an inspiration to others in the local business landscape.
2. Organization of the Year: The Organization of the Year award celebrates the achievements of a non-profit or community organization that has significantly enhanced the quality of life for Kent County residents. This could include exemplary efforts in community service, education, cultural enrichment, or any other area that contributes to the overall well-being and vitality of the community.
3. Individual of the Year: This category pays tribute to an outstanding individual whose personal and professional efforts have made a lasting and positive impact on the Kent County community. Whether through leadership, volunteerism, or philanthropy, the Individual of the Year award recognizes someone whose commitment to the community goes above and beyond, inspiring others to follow in their footsteps.
Join us in recognizing the remarkable achievements of businesses, organizations, and individuals who have gone the extra mile to make Kent County a better place for all. The Community Excellence Awards showcase the collective strength of our community and inspire others to strive for excellence in their endeavors.
2026 Awards Nomination Deadline: Friday, November 28, 2025!
Winner Benefits
The presentation of a Community Excellence Award is the highest honor bestowed to organizations and individuals from the Kent County Chamber of Commerce. Nominees presented with a Community Excellence Award will be celebrated by the Kent County Chamber of Commerce all year long. Community Excellence Award winners can expect the following:
Shore Community Outreach Team - 2025 Organization of the Year Award Winner
Beautifully designed plaque to display in winner's office
Listed as a winner on the Chamber website and marketing materials
Promoted on the Chamber’s social media channels
Spotlight in the membership directory
Interview segment on WCTR
Press release issued to local press
Congratulations to our 2025 Community Excellence Award Winners
Harborview Farms - 2024 Business of the Year Award Winner
Harborview Farms
Shore Community Outreach Team
Kristen Owen
Become The Title Sponsor ($500)
Sponsoring the Community Excellence Awards, the Kent Chamber’s premier event of the year, is a powerful way to support the recognition of beloved community organizations and individuals and promote your business.
As the Title Sponsor, you can expect the following benefits:
Business name and logo on event marketing
Business name listed in membership directory as the event title sponsor
Right of first refusal to sponsor event the following year
Sponsorship Inquiry Form
About the Kent County Chamber of Commerce
The mission of the Kent County Chamber of Commerce is to strengthen, support and promote the economic vitality of our member businesses and the community of Kent County through positive connections, business growth, community engagement, and collaborative advocacy.
Interested in joining? Learn about the benefits of becoming a member today.
