Business Awards

To emphasize the importance of small business to the economy and welfare of the entire Hanover community, the Hanover Area Chamber of Commerce will again recognize among its members the Small Business of the Year that best exemplifies sound principles of business success, personnel management, and community leadership and service.

Eligibility:

• Any Chamber member with no more than 40 full-time employees or full-time equivalent.

• Business entities, including proprietors, partnerships or corporations doing business in or located in the Hanover Chamber area.

• A business may apply directly or be nominated by another member.

• Chamber officers' businesses are not eligible.

Criteria:

• Business must have operated at least three years in the area.

• Must show evidence of success and sound growth.

• Must be a visible presence in the community.

• Must be active in support of community organizations and events

The Hanover Area is well-known for the number and variety of its successful businesses. The success of those enterprises derives in great measure from the leadership of innovative owners, managers and founders whose vision and management keep their companies viable in an increasingly competitive marketplace.

Criteria:

• A nominee must be a member of the Hanover Area Chamber of Commerce, whose business has been locally established for at least two years.

• The nominee's business must be reputable, visible and show the effects of entrepreneurial skill in exemplary management and growth.

• The nominee must be the individual responsible for the reputation that distinguishes the business among its competitors.

The Hanover Area Chamber of Commerce's Positive Action Award recognizes those organizations/businesses that positively contribute to meeting the needs of the Hanover region and work together with community members toward a cooperative vision that suggests ways to manage growth.

Nominating Process:

• Any Chamber member may nominate a candidate for the Positive Action Award. The nomination must be presented in writing to the Awards & Recognition Committee.

• It should describe the actions of the nominee and relate them to a specified Hanover principle, below.

Hanover Principles:

1. Development Sensitivity: The Greater Hanover Region's identity is still that of a small town and rural atmosphere. Future development that is sensitive to this unique condition will be essential if the area's identity is to be retained.

2. Human Services: The Greater Hanover Region is fortunate to have a large number of agencies and organizations devoted to providing health and human services. The health and welfare of the citizenry is a primary concern for an expanding population.

3. Scenic Resources: The Greater Hanover Region is fortunate to have many scenic resources - these must not be taken for granted but instead, must be protected.

4. Regional Cooperation: The Greater Hanover Region is fortunate to have cooperation among its municipalities. This is essential in sharing resources and avoiding duplication of efforts.

Eligibility:

• Any Chamber member in good standing for less than 3 years.

• Open to all business entities, including proprietorships, partnerships, and corporations operating in the Hanover Chamber area.

• A business may apply directly or be nominated by another Chamber member.

• Chamber officers' businesses are not eligible.

Criteria:

• Business has demonstrated growth or expansion since joining the Chamber.

• Visible and active participation in Chamber events and initiatives.

• Evidence of community engagement and support of local organizations or causes.

• Commitment to professional excellence and leadership in their industry.