Chaffee County Community Awards: Small Business Development Center Award Grant

The Chaffee County Community Awards recognize outstanding contributions from local businesses and individuals, with a special focus on the Small Business Development Center Award. This award honors entrepreneurial achievement in Chaffee County, celebrating businesses that demonstrate growth, innovation, and community impact. Nominations for deserving candidates are currently open, allowing the community to acknowledge those who make a significant difference. Join us in celebrating excellence and community engagement in Chaffee County.

The Chaffee County Community Foundation (CCCF) inspires local philanthropy, empowers the community by investing in the local nonprofit sector, and plays a leadership role in navigating community crisis. CCCF supports our nonprofit organizations, connects donors to community needs, manages permanent charitable funds, and brings people together to solve community problems.
The Heart of the Rockies Chamber of Commerce, Chaffee County Community Foundation, and Central Mountain Small Business Development Center are proud to announce the 2026 Chaffee County Community Awards. This annual event celebrates individuals, businesses, and organizations that are making a significant impact in our community.
Award Categories: Heart of the Rockies Chamber Awards; Small Business Development Center Award; and Chaffee County Community Foundation Awards (Volunteer of the Year; Philanthropist of the Year; and Organization of the Year).
Nominations are open to nominate a deserving individual, business, or organization.
Entrepreneur of the Year Award (North & South Chaffee County):

• This award celebrates outstanding entrepreneurial achievement in Chaffee County.

Presented by the Colorado Small Business Development Center serving the Central Mountains, it honors two businesses—one in the northern part of the county and one in the southern part—who embody the true spirit of entrepreneurship.

Eligibility

Nominees for this award should demonstrate:
Overall business success – growth in sales, effective management practices, and long-term stability.Innovation & resilience – overcoming obstacles, pursuing expansion, and bringing unique products or services to life.Community & economic impact – supporting the vitality of Chaffee County through community engagement and contributing to the overall economic development of the valley.Business exceptionalism – setting a standard of excellence that inspires others and strengthens the local economy.