The Ely Chamber of Commerce is officially accepting nominations for its four prestigious annual awards. These honors recognize the extraordinary individuals, groups, and businesses whose dedication elevates the Ely region as a premier place to live, work, and visit.
Award recipients will be celebrated during the Celebrate Ely networking event on Thursday, April 9.
Award categories: 1. Jackpine Bob Cary Community Spirit Award Established in 2009, this award honors the legacy of “local legend” Jackpine Bob Cary - author, wilderness guide, and tireless promoter of Ely. This award recognizes an individual or group whose unselfish service and enthusiastic promotion of the area have significantly improved the community’s quality of life and tourism appeal.
2. Good Neighbor Business Award This award honors for-profit or non-profit businesses that demonstrate exceptional corporate citizenship. Eligible businesses are those that go “above and beyond” through financial contributions, event sponsorships, staff volunteerism, or the donation of resources to better the Ely area. Chamber membership is not required for nomination.
3. Good Citizen Volunteer of the Year Award We all know a neighbor who is the first to step forward when help is needed. This award is dedicated to those outstanding community members who improve our daily lives through consistent volunteer efforts, whether by serving in local clubs or simply lending a hand to those in need.
4. Excellence in Customer Service Award Employees are the face of our local economy. This award recognizes a specific individual who personifies excellence in service. Whether they go the extra mile to find a product or provide a highly customized experience, we want to hear about the staff members who make every guest feel welcome.
How to nominate: To nominate an individual or business, please submit a short statement (150–500 words) explaining why they deserve the honor. Please include specific, recent achievements that illustrate the nominee’s impact on the community.
Deadline: Nominations must be received by Feb. 15. Email: [email protected] In-Person/ Mail: Ely Chamber of Commerce, Ely Regional Trailhead, 15 S. 4th Ave. W., Ely, MN 55731.
