The Southwest Michigan Regional Chamber has announced the nominees for its 2026 Business Recognition Breakfast Awards Ceremony and Annual Meeting, set for Friday, Feb. 20, at the Lake Michigan College Mendel Center’s Grand Upton Hall.
“Each year, the nominations highlight the strength, innovation, and community commitment that make our region thrive,” said Arthur Havlicek, president and CEO of the Southwest Michigan Regional Chamber.
Presented by Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, Corewell Health, Honor Credit Union and The Batalis Agency – Farm Bureau Insurance, the annual event recognizes businesses, organizations and individuals whose leadership, innovation and community commitment contribute to the region’s economic vitality.
“They are a powerful reminder that we are truly Stronger Together and that collaboration, leadership, and shared purpose continue to drive meaningful impact across Southwest Michigan,” said Havlicek.
Nominees in the Business Focused categories include:
Best New Business: Ellsbury Commercial Group; Gym Rat Performance and Wellness; Melrose Aesthetic; The Batalis Agency — Farm Bureau Insurance; and The Grant Hotel.
Economic Impact Award: Berrien County; Corewell Health; Four Winds Casinos; and Holtec International.
Small Business of the Year: 2nd & Main Coffeehouse + Bar; Bread + Bar; Naturally You Aesthetics Medical Spa; and Zo’s Mini Donuts.
Non-Profit of the Year: Meals on Wheels; New Heights CCDA; Redbud Area Ministries; and Region IV Area Agency on Aging.
Community-Focused Community Placemaking: Projects from the City of Buchanan, Lake Charter Township, New Buffalo Township, the Village of Berrien Springs and Lincoln Charter Township.
Nominees in the Individual Focused categories
Rising Star Award: Allison Brown of ServPro; Austin Batalis of The Batalis Agency — Farm Bureau Insurance; Chris Britton of New Heights CCDA; and James Morris of Gym Rat Performance and Wellness.
The Pat Moody Award: Jeffery Bradford and Matt Davis of Wightman, and Megan Yore of Sturgis Bank.
In addition to the award categories, the Chamber will also recognize one of its members as the 2026 Ambassador of the Year.
Tickets and full event details for the Business Recognition Breakfast Annual Meeting and Awards Ceremony are available online. Early-bird pricing is offered through Jan. 31, with standard pricing available through Feb. 13.
