Only one week remains to apply for Lee County’s most prestigious business awards!
There is 1 week left to apply for the 2026 Industry Appreciation Awards. If you have not yet completed your application, now is the time. Applications across all seven award categories must be submitted by 11:59 p.m. EST on June 30, 2026.
The Industry Appreciation Awards will take place on Friday, October 23, where we will celebrate the businesses and individuals making a lasting impact throughout our community. Don’t miss the opportunity to be recognized among Lee County’s best.
Ticket sales will open in September. Submit your nominations today!
2026 Award Categories
Large Business of the Year
This award recognizes a large business with 51 or more employees that has demonstrated exceptional growth in revenue, workforce, products, or services over the past three years. The recipient will have implemented unique strategies that distinguish them from competitors, engaged meaningfully with the local community, and adopted innovative practices. This award also acknowledges the business’s ability to overcome recent challenges effectively.
Small Business of the Year
This award recognizes a small business with up to 50 employees that has demonstrated exceptional growth in revenue, workforce, products, or services over the past three years. The recipient will have implemented unique strategies that distinguish them from competitors, engaged meaningfully with the local community, and adopted innovative practices. This award also acknowledges the business’s ability to overcome recent challenges effectively.
Large Manufacturer of the Year
This award celebrates a large manufacturing business with 51 or more employees that has achieved remarkable growth in output and scale over the last three years. The recipient will have integrated new technologies into their production processes, maintained high product quality and safety standards, and demonstrated a commitment to environmental sustainability.
Small Manufacturer of the Year
This award celebrates a small manufacturing business with 50 or less employees that has achieved remarkable growth in output and scale over the last three years. The recipient will have integrated new technologies into their production processes, maintained high product quality and safety standards, and demonstrated a commitment to environmental sustainability.
Lee Trailblazer Award
This award recognizes a business founded in Lee County that has demonstrated exceptional growth while embodying values that strengthen the broader business community, expand opportunities, cultivate local partnerships, and promote long-term, inclusive success. Eligible businesses must be founded and headquartered in Lee County, have been in continuous operation for more than three years, and demonstrate measurable growth in revenue, employment, services, and regional reach.
Start Up of the Year
This award celebrates a business founded in Lee County that has launched within the past three years and is already demonstrating strong momentum and community impact. The recipient will have shown early growth in revenue, workforce, products, or services, implemented unique strategies that distinguish them from competitors, engaged meaningfully with the local community, adopted innovative practices and demonstrated resilience in navigating the challenges of launching a new venture.
Tech Catalyst Award
This award recognizes a company with a strong and sustained presence in Lee County that has demonstrated outstanding commitment to strengthening the technology ecosystem in Southwest Florida. This award honors long-term regional impact, workforce investment, and community leadership, not just business success or rapid growth. The recipient is a driving force behind the development of local talent, meaningful innovation, and partnerships that help the tech sector thrive. Eligible companies must be headquartered in, or have a significant operating presence in, Lee County and have been in business for at least three years.
Mark Your Calendar! The Industry Appreciation Awards is an annual celebration of business excellence, presented by the Horizon Council, Lee County Economic Development Office and Horizon Foundation.