Nominations are now open for the 2021 Business Excellence Awards
Every year, Think Dutchess recognizes the most successful businesses in Dutchess County at the Business Excellence Awards. We are very excited to announce Dutchess County’s favorite executive-level event, The Business Excellence Awards will return — in-person! We hope you will join us Thursday, October 28th to celebrate the achievements of the top businesses in Dutchess County.
Nominations (including self-nominations) are now open. Businesses and nonprofit organizations that exemplify excellence, innovation, collaboration, service and resilience are encouraged to apply by August 15, 2021.
Sponsorship and advertising opportunities are now open as well.
TO MAKE A NOMINATION:
- Select the category that best represents the business.
- Complete the appropriate nomination form with as much detailed information about the business as possible.
- Submit your nomination by Sunday, August 15, 2021, to be considered by our Awards Committee.
AWARD CATEGORIES

Nonprofit of the Year
Criteria for Entry:
The Nonprofit of the Year Award recognizes a community agency for its efforts in making Dutchess County a better place to live and work. The award is open to any Dutchess County-based 501(c)(3), irrespective of size and budget, which encourages economic activity in local communities, provides employment opportunities and demonstrates superior performance, quality and consistency in pursuit of its mission.
Judging Criteria:
• Impact on population served
• Enrichment of company mission through innovative approaches
• Community involvement and outreach
• Commitment to staff and volunteers
APPLY HERE
Innovator of the Year
Criteria for Entry:
The Innovator of the Year Award recognizes the organizations and people who bring new ideas to life. The award is open to any Dutchess County organization, public or private, irrespective of size or industry sector The Innovator of the Year uses technology to bring to market a unique product or service which advances and adds value to the local job market, industry and society as a whole.
Judging Criteria:
• Innovation Process
• Value to industry/society
• Demonstrated growth process
• Potential for growth
APPLY HERE
Small Business of the Year
Criteria for Entry:
The Small Business of the Year Award is open to any Dutchess County Business with 5-49 employees (including an owner which is involved in day-to-day operations).
Judging Criteria:
• Current business performance
• Business growth over the last 24 month period
• Future growth potential
• Demonstrated ability to overcome and respond to changes in market or extraordinary circumstance
• Key differentiation factors and competitive analysis
APPLY HERE
Large Business of the Year
The Large Business of the Year Awards is open to any Dutchess County Business with more than 50 employees.
Judging Criteria:
• Business growth and potential
• Competitive analysis and understanding of market
• Clear vision and strategic objectives for future growth
• Demonstrated ability to overcome and respond to changes in market or extraordinary circumstance
• Commitment to the local community including local job creation
APPLY HERE
If you have additional questions, feel free to reach out to rachel@thinkdutchess.com.