Chamber of Commerce accepting nominations for annual awards

By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 4 September 2026 at 1:39 pm

The Orleans County Chamber of Commerce is seeking nominations for its 28th annual business awards.

Nominations are due by Sept. 14 and can entered on a Google Form (click here).

The categories include:

Business of the Year – This award is presented to a business that has experienced significant overall achievements/success throughout the year. (Last year’s winner: Velocitii in Medina.)
Lifetime Achievement – This award is presented to an individual with a long-term record of outstanding business achievements. (Rita Zambito received the award in 2025.)
Phoenix Award – This award is presented to an organization or business that has successfully adapted or re-used an existing facility. (Newell Lounge/Shirt Factory in Medina won the award last year.)
New Business of the Year – This award is presented to a business or organization that has opened in the past year. (Homestead Pest Control in Albion won last year.)
Community Service Award – This award is presented to a business, organization or individual that has provided meaningful contributions to the community in either professional or non-professional spheres. (Genesee-Orleans Ministry of Concern won in 2025.)
Agricultural Business of the Year – This award is presented to an agricultural business that has experienced significant overall achievements/success throughout the year. (RLW Cattle in Lyndonville won the award in 2025.)
Small Business of the Year – This award is presented to a small business that has experienced significant achievements/success throughout the year. (Bentley Brothers in Albion won last year.)
Hidden Gem –This award is presented to a business that has made a positive contribution to tourism in Orleans County. (Hurd Orchards in Holley won the honor in 2025.)