Congratulations to the 2021 Awards Recipients!

Click on image to hear acceptance speeches

Thank You to Our Sponsors and to iAM Music featuring Cruz and the Castaways!

Information about the Awards: 
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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.  The 2020 Business of the Year is 1st SouthWest Bank; other recent recipients include 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 20 full-time employees.  These businesses demonstrate innovation, perseverance, and outstanding accomplishments in management while creating a successful and growing business.  Honeyville & Honey House Distillery is the 2020 recipient, others include Durango Harley Davidson, and Pet Haus.

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.  Erin Neer with MuniRevs is the 2020 Entrepreneur of the Year; past recipients include Jeff & Jennifer Vierling with Tailwind Nutrition, and Jessika Buell with Lucky Services/Marketing Concepts Squared.

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.  Region 9 Economic Development is the 2020 Nonprofit of the Year; past recipients include Trails 2000, and the Community Foundation.

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.   Bob Wolff is the 2020 Citizen of the Year, and other recent recipients include Ellen Roberts, and Joanne Spina.

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.    Dave Woodruff is the 2020 Volunteer of the Year; past recipients are Lisa Barrett, and Jeff Givens.

Young Professional of the Year (YPOD) YPOD of the Year is selected by members of the YPOD organization.   
Barbara Conrad (LLP) Barbara Conrad Award is selected by Leadership La Plata for exemplary service in that organization.
Morley Ballantine Award is a time-honored award selected by a committee.
Diplomat of the Year Honors a Chamber Diplomat who served the community and the Diplomat program 
Spirit of Durango Award This award is selected by the Chamber Diplomats and recognizes a business that demonstrates accomplishment and community involvement, projecting a positive image of Durango.  ​