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By Ellen Brabo, For Washington Daily News

The Washington Beaufort County Chamber of Commerce is now accepting nominations for its annual awards, recognizing outstanding contributions in various categories within the local community. Members of the Chamber are encouraged to participate in the nomination process, which closes on Jan. 8th at 12 p.m.

The awards up for grabs include Community Leader of the Year, Entrepreneur of the Year, Young Professional of the Year, Business of the Year, and Small Business of the Year. In order to be nominated or submit a nomination, individuals must be Chamber members.

The announcements are scheduled to take place at the Chamber Annual Banquet, set for Thursday, Jan. 25th, at the Washington Civic Center.

Qualifications for Each Award Category:

Community Leader of the Year:

– Must be a citizen in the Beaufort County area.

– Demonstrated commitment to voluntary service.

– Displays high ethical and personal integrity.

– Displays long-term leadership above and beyond job responsibilities.

Entrepreneur of the Year:

– Shown determination to positively impact the Beaufort County Economy.

– Early excellence in their industry.

– Innovative Products and Services.

Small Business of the Year:

– Business with fewer than 15 employees in the Beaufort County area.

– Growth through revenue and job creation.

– Innovative products and services.

– Volunteerism of employee base.

– Demonstrates economic support for the local business community.

Young Professional of the Year:

– Under the age of 45.

– Service and involvement in the Young Professionals program and Beaufort County.

– Initiative in seeking and fulfilling leadership roles.

– Professionalism in their field of work.

– Vision and passion to mentor others.

– Volunteerism resulting in civic, social, or economic improvement.

Business of the Year:

– Business in the Beaufort County area.

– Growth through revenue and job creation.

– Innovative products and services.

– Volunteerism of employee base.

– Demonstrates economic support for the local business community.

The 2023 recipients of these esteemed awards were Agape Health Services (Community Leader of the Year), First Bank (Business of the Year), Tom Ryan of Pamlico Books (Entrepreneur of the Year), and Henry Copagna (Community Impact Award).

This is an opportunity to recognize and honor the businesses and individuals who contribute to the growth and prosperity of the community. Nominations should be submitted to Catherine Glover at cglover@wbcchamber.com.