Announcing the 2025 DKEDC Annual Awards Gala

Nominations open Dec. 1; ceremony Feb. 21, 2026

The holidays are rapidly approaching, and the Dickinson County Economic Development Corporation wants to give our community yet another reason to celebrate. Mark your calendars on Feb. 21 for the 2025 DKEDC Annual Awards Gala! Join us in recognition of our community’s best and brightest in business, entrepreneurial spirit, and community service.

Award Categories

This year, the DKEDC will recognize businesses and individuals nominated by the community for their outstanding achievements and contributions in 11 different categories.

• Business of the Year

• Young Entrepreneur of the Year

• Community Catalyst of the Year

• Employee of the Year

• Best Trade Business

• Best Retail Business

• Best Hospitality Business

• Best Non-Profit

• Best Storefront

• Best Customer Service

• Best Professional Business

The nomination process opens on Dec. 1 and closes on Jan. 23.

Awards Criteria

The selection process for the prestigious DKEDC Annual Awards ensures that the most deserving businesses and individuals receive recognition. The criteria for determining the winners are twofold: incorporating both the number of nominations and a comprehensive scoring rubric that evaluates the combined reasoning behind the nominations and quality of responses. An extra point is awarded to those who invest or partner with the DKEDC.

Submissions without valid or sufficient responses will not be counted. Nominees cannot win more than two years in a row.

Here are the nomination requirements for a business or individual in a given category. (Note: All nominations must reside or work in Dickinson County.)

Business of the Year

• In operation for at least one year and has shown demonstrable growth in 2025.

• Delivers excellent customer service by going above and beyond for their customers/clients.

• Contributes to the economic growth and quality of life in Dickinson County through exceptional business practices and customer service.

• Demonstrates a high level of community involvement through participation in civic, community, or DKEDC projects and initiatives.

Young Entrepreneur of the Year

• Business has been in operation for at least six months.

• Must be 30 years of age or younger.

• Demonstrates strong leadership and entrepreneurial potential necessary for long-term business success and economic growth.

Community Catalyst of the Year

• Must be an individual with a record of generosity through financial support, significant volunteer time, or a combination of both.

• Made a positive impact on our communities, their citizens, and the overall quality of life in Dickinson County.

• Plays an active role in the civic, cultural, social, and moral welfare of the community.

Employee of the Year

• Demonstrates entrepreneurial habits, strong work ethic, and commitment to their workplace and community.

• Positively contributes to the overall work environment and/or customer experience.  Has shown innovation and/or leadership within their position.

Best Trade Business

• Offers a high-quality specialized service.

• Prioritizes customer service and satisfaction.

• Open (but not limited) to electricians, plumbers, manufacturers, construction workers, linemen, etc.

Best Hospitality Business

• Prioritizes customer service and customer experience.

• Employees have a positive and friendly attitude.

• Open (but not limited) to restaurants, hotels/lodging, event venues, tourism-based businesses, etc.

Best Retail Business

• Exemplifies excellence in retail performance, customer service, leadership, management, and marketing.

• Maintains attractive and creative displays or store layouts

• Open (but not limited) to clothing businesses, drug stores, grocery stores, convenience stores, hardware stores, etc.

Best Professional Business

• A business that provides customers with a specialized service.

• Provides and maintains a customer-focused atmosphere.

• Open (but not limited to) lawyers, physicians, insurance and health professionals, veterinarians, accountants, management consultants, etc.

Best Non-Profit/Government Agency

• A community organization or government agency that has made a significant contribution to the overall health and quality of life in Dickinson County. 

• Open (but not limited) to police departments, fire departments, emergency management personnel, any local not-for-profit organizations, etc.

Best Storefront

• Business has made a significant improvement to the front of their building OR has consistently maintained an aesthetically pleasing storefront or entrance.

Best Customer Service

• Must be an active business OR an individual 

• Goes above and beyond the call of duty to ensure the best service possible.

The DKEDC encourages everyone in the community to nominate the businesses and individuals they believe deserve recognition for their hard work in helping Dickinson County thrive in 2025. Consider it an early Christmas gift – one that’s free! To submit a nomination, visit www.dkedc.com/business/2025-business-best-of-the-best . To stay up to date on the latest details regarding the Gala, including times and venue, please contact the DKEDC through our website or follow us on Facebook. Cheers to another wonderful year!s