Annual Banquet

About the Banquet

The Annual Banquet hosted by the Clinton-Sampson Chamber of Commerce is a highly anticipated event that brings together businesses, non-profits, and community organizations for an evening of celebration and recognition. Attendees gather in a festive atmosphere to enjoy cocktails, food, and camaraderie. The banquet features the acknowledgment of outstanding contributions and achievements, with awards presented in various categories (see below).

Distinguished guests and speakers add a special touch to the event, sharing insights and inspiring the community with their words. The Annual Banquet serves as a platform to honor exemplary individuals, businesses, and organizations that have made significant contributions to the growth and vitality of the Clinton-Sampson community.

Beyond the formalities, the banquet provides a valuable opportunity for networking, fostering connections, and strengthening the bonds that contribute to the overall prosperity of the community. Whether recognizing business leaders, community advocates, or emerging talents, the Annual Banquet is a cornerstone event that highlights the collaborative spirit and shared commitment to building a thriving and interconnected Clinton-Sampson community.

To buy tickets, please visit bit.ly/2026-AnnualBanquet or contact Chamber Staff at (910) 592-6177.

Annual Awards: Eligibility and Evaluation Criteria

BUSINESS LEADER OF THE YEAR

Any individual who owns and operates or bears principal responsibility for operating a business may be nominated. Partners who, jointly own and operate a business may be nominated as a “team,’” so long as the number of individuals in the team nomination does not exceed four.
A business professional that has demonstrated exceptional success in the ownership or management of a business through leadership, exemplary customer service, and community engagement.

BUSINESS EXCELLENCE

Staying power: a substantiated history as an established business.
Indication of continued growth as it relates to sales volume and employee base.
Response to adversity: ability to face and solve economic problems.

ENTREPRENEURIAL SUCCESS

A business that exemplifies exceptional entrepreneurial spirit through creativity, innovation, and determination.
Demonstrates a commitment to pushing boundaries, embracing risks, and creating unique solutions to challenges.
Success in overcoming obstacles while staying true to entrepreneurial goals.

MEMBER OF THE YEAR

Special recognition of an individual among the membership or their representatives that has made significant improvements or special impact to the Community, the Chamber or efforts toward promoting the mission of our organization.
Selected by the Executive Committee of the Board of Directors (Chair, Vice Chair, Treasurer, Executive Director).

HOW ARE THE WINNERS CHOSEN?

A list of nominees is first created by the Nominating Committee. Each nomination is carefully reviewed and evaluated based on the established criteria for each award category. From this process, the list is narrowed down to three finalists per category. Ballots are then mailed to the Chamber membership, and award recipients are selected based on the votes submitted by our members.

Presentation of awards will take place in March of each year during our Annual Banquet.