The Manhattan Area Chamber of Commerce has recognized the successes and achievements of its members in six categories: Cornerstone (Lifetime Achievement in Business and Industry), Small Business of the Year, Women/Minority Owned Business of the Year, Business of the Year, Entrepreneurial Spirit and Tourism Development Awards.
“We are thrilled to get the opportunity to honor so many great businesses,” said Jason Smith President and CEO of the Manhattan Area Chamber of Commerce. “This is a great opportunity to recognize the importance of the business community on Manhattan’s economy and the quality of life of its residents.”
--The Cornerstone Award honors a business that exemplifies what being a “solid pillar of the community” is all about. It is given to a local business that has demonstrated growth in sales, employees and/or services since its origination. Additionally, it will be evident of active participation in the business community and their impact on the local community with association involvement as well as community volunteering. The 2024 recipient is The Trust Company.
--The Business of the Year Award is awarded to a business within the Manhattan community that exemplifies both business and civic leadership. Community involvement, management practices and overall financial performance are the primary criteria for this category.
The 2024 finalists for the Business of the Year Award are: WTC Fiber, Addair Law and Ascension Via Christi Hospital.The 2024 recipient is WTC Fiber.
--The Small Business of the Year is awarded to a small business within the Manhattan community that exemplifies both business and civic leadership. Community involvement, management practices and overall financial performance are the primary criteria for this category.
The 2024 finalists for the Small Business of the Year Award are: Vista Burger, BBN Architects and Canopy.The 2024 recipient is Canopy.
--The Women/Minority Owned Business Award recognizes diverse business leaders and decision-makers across all industries who have a proven track record of excellence in advocating for others within their communities and workplaces throughout the local community.
The 2024 finalists for the Women/Minority Owned Business are: Clay Taylor – American Family Insurance, Steve’s Floral and AsterHouse Design.The 2024 recipient is Steve’s Floral.
--The Entrepreneurial Spirit Award celebrates the entrepreneur who has led the way for their business. The nominee will demonstrate true entrepreneurial spirit through the creation of a new business locally, despite the risks involved. The entrepreneur will be noted for the creativity of the new product or service being offered as well as the demonstration of sound business practices.
The 2024 finalists for the Entrepreneurial Spirit Award are: Black Entrepreneurs of the Flint Hills, Hi-Tech Interiors and Purple Wave, Inc.The 2024 recipient is Purple Wave Inc.
--The Tourism Development Award is presented to a business that has made a significant contribution to the tourism industry in the area. This business has created a new, innovative product, policy, service or event to promote and enhance tourism in the local community.
The 2024 finalists for the Tourism/Hospitality Award are: Manhattan Arts Center, Marianna Kistler Beach Museum of Art and Manhattan Running Company.
The 2024 recipient is Manhattan Running Company.