Thank you Sponsors!

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.  The 2021 Business of the Year is Kroegers Ace Hardware; other recent recipients include 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.  Southwest Eye Consultants is the 2021 recipient, others include Honeyville & Honey House Distillery, 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.  Carol Clark, Union Social House is the 2021 Entrepreneur of the Year; past recipients include Erin Neer with MuniRevs, 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.  Business Improvement District is the 2021 Nonprofit of the Year; past recipients include Region 9 Economic Development, 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.  Karen Zink is the 2021 Citizen of the Year, and other recent recipients include Bob Wolff, 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.    Vaughn Morris is the 2021 Volunteer of the Year; past recipients are Dave Woodruff , 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 Leadership La Plata 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 is selected by the Chamber Diplomats and recognizes a business that demonstrates accomplishment and community involvement, projecting a positive image of Durango.  ​