This year’s award ceremony will take place during our South Kitsap Chamber Luncheon on:

📅 Thursday, December 11, 2025
📍 TBA

This special luncheon will bring together Chamber members, community leaders, and guests for an afternoon of recognition, inspiration, and celebration. In addition to honoring award recipients, attendees will enjoy networking opportunities, a delicious meal, and the chance to connect with fellow community champions.

Join us as we shine a spotlight on the people and organizations that embody leadership, innovation, and community spirit—those who go above and beyond to make South Kitsap a better place for all.

Award Categories & Eligibility

We will celebrate a wide variety of achievements through several award categories.

🏆 Spirit of the Chamber Award (Individual or Business)

• Description: Recognizes an individual or business that exemplifies the Chamber’s values of community engagement, collaboration, and innovation. Honorees not only excel in their field but also actively strengthen and uplift the local community.
• Eligibility
  ► Must be a member of the South Kitsap Chamber of Commerce
  ► Demonstrates a commitment to fostering relationships with other local businesses
  ► Participate in Chamber and community events
  ► Supports Chamber initiatives
  ► Uses innovative practices that set a benchmark and inspire others
  ► Prioritize sustainability, inclusivity, and connection
  ► Embody the collaboration and progress that the Chamber seeks to promote

🏆 Small Business of the Year Award (Business)

• Description: Celebrates an independently owned and operated business with fewer than 50 employees that plays a vital role in the South Kitsap community.
• Eligibility
  ► Must be a member of the South Kitsap Chamber of Commerce
  ► Has a positive reputation in the community
  ► Demonstrates meaningful community involvement and impact
  ► Promotes sustainability and delivers outstanding customer service
  ► Creates a positive workplace culture with engaged employees

🏆 Non-Profit Excellence Award (Non-Profit Business)

• Description: Honors a non-profit that demonstrates exceptional leadership, innovation, transparency, and measurable impact in the community.
• Consider these attributes for nomination
  ► Are they a legal, registered Non-profit
  ► Is their mission and vision clear?
  ► Do they have strong leadership and efficient operations?
  ► Does the organization display innovation and adaptability?
  ► Are they actively engaged in the community outside of their normal operations?
  ► Do they offer impactful programs to the community?
  ► Do they have strong volunteer and donor engagement?
  ► Do they have collaborative partnerships with other organizations?

🏆 Community Impact Award (Individual)

• Description: Recognizes an individual whose extraordinary dedication has significantly improved the quality of life in South Kitsap. Their efforts—whether through initiatives, volunteerism, or leadership—create lasting positive change and inspire others.
• Key qualities include
  ► A clear and meaningful impact on the community
  ► Ability to foster unity, pride, and collaboration
  ► Partnerships with local organizations, government, and residents
  ► A legacy of resilience, compassion, and service that strengthens the community

🏆 Excellence in Service and Leadership Award (Individual or Business)

• Description: Honors an individual or business that sets the standard for exceptional service and inspiring leadership. Their influence uplifts clients, colleagues, and the community, creating lasting value through dedication and integrity.
• Key qualities include
  ► Consistently going above and beyond in service
  ► Demonstrates empathy, professionalism, and attention to detail
  ► Encourages collaboration and team growth
  ► Actively mentors and supports others
  ► Earns respect through integrity, passion, and a strong work ethic
  ► Creates a culture of excellence that inspires peers and community members

Nominate a Business or Individual

Do you know a business, leader, or community member who deserves to be recognized for their contributions to South Kitsap? We invite you to submit a nomination!

Your nomination helps shine a light on the individuals and organizations who make a lasting impact on our community. After a nomination is received, nominees will be contacted and asked to complete an additional questionnaire to assist in our evaluation process and confirm eligibility.