Chamber accepting nominations for Small Business Awards

Complete Dental won the 2012 Small Business of the Year award. (CONTRIBUTED)

MADISON – Madison Chamber of Commerce is accepting nominations in five categories for its 2013 Small Business Awards.

“Since inception, the Madison Chamber of Commerce has saluted excellence in business. We have especially recognized gutsy local entrepreneurs who started from scratch to create successful businesses that shape our economy,” Leigh Thigpen said. Thigpen works as the chamber’s events, marketing and communications coordinator.

“The Madison business community represents innovative individuals, cutting-edge ventures and unparalleled community outreach,” Thigpen said.

Award categories include “Start-Up Business of the Year,” “Excellence in Leadership and Service” and “Small Business of the Year.” The chamber also recognizes its “Ambassador of the Year.”

New this year, the “Community Servant of the Year” will honor an individual “exemplifying meritorious service to our community on behalf of their organization,” Thigpen said. Nominees must have worked for a non-profit organization or as a civil servant for three years minimum.

Nominees for start-up business must have been operating from one to three years, with ambitious entrepreneurial spirit, perseverance, creativity and determination. The Christina Smith – State Farm agency won in 2012.

To qualify for “Excellence in Leadership & Service,” lead officers in a business must have demonstrated social and economic impact on the region, along with civic responsibility. The 2012 award went to Mary Lynn Wright at Madison Hospital.

Individual owners or partners of a business are eligible for “Small Business of the Year.” Nominees must be United States residents and chamber members in good standing for six months. The 2012 Small Business of the Year was Complete Dental.

Samantha Brinkley with Rocket City HR was the 2012 “Ambassador of the Year.”

Deadline for nominations is Sept. 16. To place a nomination, call the chamber office at 256-325-8317 or email to leigh@madisonalchamber.com. For more information, visit madisonALchamber.com.

The awards banquet will be held on Oct. 17 at the Jackson Center.