Nominations sought for development awards

The Missouri Department of Economic Development is now accepting award nominations for the Governor's Economic Development Conference, to be held at The Lodge of the Four Seasons at Lake of the Ozarks, May 17-18.

The theme of this year's conference is "Leading Missouri and the World into the New Frontier."

Nominations of individuals, communities and businesses will be accepted through Feb. 25. Winners may be asked to make presentations during the conference.

Awards to be presented recognize outstanding achievements in business expansion and attraction, economic development marketing, exporting, use of innovative technology, small business, community development and work force training and development.

Governor's Achievement Award. The ultimate award given by the Department of Economic Development, the winner of this honor will be chosen from the other eight awards categories.

Economic Development Marketing Program of the Year Award. This award goes to the community with the most successful economic development program in the state.

Business Expansion and Attraction Award. This award recognizes a company for a specific project regarding a new location or expansion that has contributed to the well-being of the community and its residents.

First-Time Exporter of the Year Award. This honor is given to a Missouri company that has successfully entered the international market in the past 12 months. Partnership with the Office of International Marketing is preferred, but not required.

Exporter of the Year Award. This award goes to an existing exporter that has shown significant gains in the international arena. A working partnership with the Office of International Marketing is desired.

Governor's Technology Award. This honor is given to a company that has developed a new technology or adopted/applied innovative manufacturing processes or business practices.

Small Business Award. This award is presented to a small business defined as having fewer than 25 employees and less than $5 million in annual sales that has experienced significant growth, improved internal processes, and/or developed a business or marketing plan to improve the business.

Community Development Award. This award recognizes a community development corporation, community-based organization, local community development group or city which displays the best example of a community development partnership resulting in nontraditional economic development achievement despite dire community disadvantages.

Innovative Training/Workforce Development Award. This award recognizes commitment to providing skills attainment for new or existing workers.

To receive a nomination form, including more detailed award criteria, contact Rebecca West at the Department of Economic Development, 573-751-1691.