For 25 years the annual Richardson Chamber Business and Industry Appreciation Luncheon has been a major Chamber event in the fall. Formerly held as a barbecue lunch with the Richardson Rotary Clubs at the Civic Center, the event was changed to a more formal luncheon at a local hotel in 2003.

In order to recognize the many aspects of business activity in Richardson, the Chamber’s Signature Luncheon Committee and the three Richardson Rotary Club presidents held a series of meetings to discuss revamping the event.  Together they have selected a new name and created 6 new awards for local businesses and organizations.

This year, the new Business & Industry Awards Luncheon will take place on Thursday, November 20 at 11:30am to 1:00pm at the Hyatt Regency Dallas-Richardson Hotel. The event will be sponsored this year by Frost Bank is Richardson’s newest bank and will open this fall in the mixed-use Eastside development on Central Expressway at E. Campbell Road.

Nominations are now being taken for the various award categories. Nominations may be submitted by RCC members, RCC Staff, members of the Richardson Rotary Clubs, City of Richardson employees and officials, and by RISD/PISD employees and officials.

1. Commercial Real Estate Project Award: Given to a Richardson real estate project in office, industrial, retail, TOD, or mixed use which demonstrates a positive new vitality for the city and has a strong impact on Richardson’s commercial real estate sector. Projects must be completed or under construction as of the date of nomination.
2. Community Involvement Award:  Given to a business which has consistently, over a number of years, supported and/or contributed financial resources and personal time to Richardson-specific charitable, educational, civic and social organizations and causes. Please include examples.
3. International Business Award: Given to a foreign-owned business in Richardson which has given significant support and/or provided significant economic investments in the community or job creation.
4. Newcomer Business Award: Given to a business which has located in Richardson since January 1, 2006, and has had a significant impact on the community either through economic investments, community visibility and support or other unique contribution.
5. Public/Non-Profit/Educational Award: Given to a public sector or non-profit entity, or an educational institution or unit thereof (may be Richardson-based or not), for its impact and distinguished service to the businesses and citizens of Richardson as evidenced by a recent achievement milestone.
6. Richardson Loyalty Award: Given to a Richardson business for its longevity in Richardson (minimum of 10 years) or for renewing its commitment to a Richardson presence when there was a choice to move.

Nominations may be submitted by RCC members, RCC Staff, members of Richardson Rotaries, City employees and officials, RISD/PISD employees and officials.

If you want to make a nomination,click here for a nomination form.

Nominations must be no more than 300 words and submitted electronically to the chamber.  Nominations will be accepted through September 19th.

A 7-person judging panel made up of Chamber appointees and the three Rotary Clubs will assess the nominations and select the recipients in each category.

Mark your calendar for November 20th as we celebrate Richardson businesses, the companies and organizations which continue to make a difference in our community.