Southwest Colorado Rocks

We’re honoring outstanding businesses and leaders across La Plata County, including Durango, Bayfield, and Ignacio. Celebrate the impact, leadership, and generosity that make our region strong.

Join us on Feb 19, 2026, at the FLC Community Concert Hall for the inaugural Southwest Colorado Rocks, building on more than 40 years of the Durango Rocks Awards Celebration!

Information about the Awards

Business of the Year

The Business of the Year award recognizes dynamic companies that share a commitment to excellence, business growth and the community. They have a proven record of financial performance, strategies, and growth. They demonstrate achievement in service, and innovation in management. Recent recipients include Kroegers Ace Hardware, 1st SouthWest Bank, Peak Food & Beverage, and Durango Dermatology.

Small Business of the Year

The Small Business of the Year award is presented to companies that have been in business for a minimum of three years and have less than 15 full-time employees. These businesses demonstrate innovation, perseverance, and outstanding accomplishments in management while creating a successful and growing business. Past recipients include Southwest Eye Consultants, Honeyville & Honey House Distillery, Durango Harley Davidson, and Pet Haus.

Citizen of the Year

The Citizen of the Year is awarded to individuals who have made a noteworthy contribution to our community that is above and beyond their profession or regular responsibilities. Someone who exemplifies putting the community first and making Durango a better place. Recent recipients include Karen Zink, Bob Wolff, Ellen Roberts, and Joanne Spina.

Non-Profit of the Year

The Nonprofit of the Year award honors outstanding achievement in the nonprofit sector, meets an unfilled need for the betterment of the community, and serves with distinction. Past recipients include the Business Improvement District, Region 9 Economic Development, Trails 2000, and the Community Foundation.

Entrepreneur of the Year

The Entrepreneur of Year award is given to someone who creates a new business and is seen as a source of new ideas, goods, or services. Entrepreneurs take risks of creating a startup, demonstrate vision, leadership, and ingenuity. Past recipients include Carol Clark, Erin Neer with MuniRevs, Jeff & Jennifer Vierling with Tailwind Nutrition, and Jessika Buell with Lucky Services/Marketing Concepts Squared.

Volunteer of the Year

Volunteer of Year honors an individual who exemplifies the spirit of volunteerism, and community leadership that is above and beyond their normal profession and responsibilities. Past recipients are Vaughn Morris, Dave Woodruff , Lisa Barrett, and Jeff Givens.

Morley Ballantine Award

Morley Ballantine Award is a time-honored award selected by a committee.

Spirit of Durango Award

Spirit of Durango Award is selected by the Chamber Diplomats and recognizes a business that demonstrates accomplishment and community involvement, projecting a positive image of Durango.

Barbara Conrad Leadership La Plata

Barbara Conrad Leadership La Plata Award is selected by Leadership La Plata for exemplary service in that organization.

Diplomat of the Year

Diplomat of the Year honors a Chamber Diplomat who served the community and the Diplomat program

Young Professional of the Year

YPOD of the Year is selected by members of the YPOD organization.

See Past Award Recipients

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