SUMMERLAND – The Summerland Chamber of Commerce Business Excellence Awards nomination period had closed with a record 72 nominations being accepted.
“We are extremely pleased with the response we have seen from the community”, said Chamber Executive Director David D. Hull. “The dramatic increase in nominations is directly related to the changes made this year in how the award recipients are selected”.
“In previous years the award recipient was determined by a voting process. The awards are intended to be a recognition of business excellence and not a popularity contest. This year each nominee will meet with a three-person panel adjudicating their respective award category.”
The adjudication process takes place March 5,6,7. Each nominee with meet with the adjudication panel for 30 minutes. A standardized list of questions will frame the conversation and create consistency in addition to allowing nominees expand on their business in a relaxed positive environment.
“Everywhere I have employed this system the nominees exit their interview saying they really enjoyed meeting with the panel. Entrepreneurs really like to talk about their business, successes, and plans going forward”, said Hull.
The Business Excellence and Community Awards Gala is set for Saturday March 30 at the Centre Stage Theatre. Tickets are $35 and are available on the Chamber website or by contacting the Chamber office.