James Tyree Emerging Business Leadership Award

Geographic Scope: Six-county Chicagoland metropolitan area (Cook, DuPage, Kane, Lake, McHenry, Will counties)

Program Focus: Recognizes high-growth small businesses that demonstrate the spirit and values of the late James Tyree, focusing on community advocacy, civic engagement, and philanthropic initiatives in healthcare, education, and children's causes.

Eligibility Criteria

• Operate within the six-county Chicagoland metropolitan area
• Minimum of 2 years in business
• Annual revenues of at least $500,000 but less than $10 million
• Demonstrate substantial growth over the past two years
• Have 5 or more employees
• Active in local civic or philanthropic initiatives

Selection Process

• Open application period: March
• Public voting at kickoff reception in April
• Private panel of judges convenes in May to evaluate finalists
• Winner announced at Chicagoland Chamber's Annual Meeting in June

About the Award: Named after James Tyree, late Chicagoland Chamber Chairman and former Mesirow Financial Chairman and CEO, who was an advocate for community causes.

Application Process

1. Application Period: Throughout March
2. Submission: Application form available on the Chamber's website
3. Public Voting: Open to the public at kickoff reception on Wednesday, April 22 at Mesirow Financial
4. Judge Evaluation: Private panel of judges convenes in May
5. Award Announcement: Winner announced at Chicagoland Chamber's Annual Meeting in June

Contact: Click on application link on Chamber website for more information or to apply