Lee County’s 33rd Industry Appreciation Awards: A Celebration of Business Excellence
Registration is officially open for one of the most anticipated events in the Lee County business calendar: the 33rd Industry Appreciation Awards luncheon. Set to take place on Friday, October 24, at the Caloosa Sound Convention Center in Fort Myers, this event is a cherished tradition that continues to celebrate business achievements in the community.
What to Expect
The Industry Appreciation Awards, hosted by the Horizon Council, the Horizon Foundation, and the Lee County Economic Development Office, is not just any awards ceremony; it’s a gala that recognizes the dedication, innovation, and success of local businesses. This year, the awards program will honor 22 companies that have excelled across seven categories:
- Large Business of the Year
- Small Business of the Year
- Elevate Award
- Startup of the Year Award
- Tech Catalyst of the Year Award
- Large Manufacturer of the Year
- Small Manufacturer of the Year
The event promises a full day of networking and recognition, kicking off with networking opportunities at 10 a.m. before the awards luncheon starts at 11 a.m. Whether you’re a business owner, an entrepreneur, or a community supporter, this event provides an invaluable opportunity to connect and celebrate successes.
Location and Ticket Information
The Industry Appreciation Awards will be hosted at the Caloosa Sound Convention Center, located at 1375 Monroe St., Fort Myers. Tickets for this exciting event are priced at $50 each and can be purchased online. However, be sure to register before the deadline on October 10 to secure your spot!
The Horizon Foundation: Supporting Economic Growth
The Horizon Foundation has been a dedicated player in fostering economic development in Lee County since its inception 1995-96. Operating as a charitable 501(c)(3) organization since 2000, the Foundation plays a crucial role in sourcing private-sector funding to support initiatives spearheaded by the Lee County Economic Development Office and the Horizon Council. Their efforts focus on improving and enhancing the region’s business climate, creating a vibrant environment for both established and new enterprises.
For more information about the Horizon Foundation, feel free to visit their official website or call 239-533-6806.
The Horizon Council: The Voice of Business
Established in 1991, the Horizon Council serves as a public-private board that advises the Lee Board of County Commissioners on economic development matters. With a diverse membership base that includes up to 80 representatives from various sectors, the Council works tirelessly to enhance the business environment in Lee County.
Their mission extends to retaining and expanding existing businesses and attracting new organizations to diversify employment opportunities in the area. As the only public-private partnership in Lee County, the Horizon Council is a crucial advocate for the business community. For more insight into their initiatives, you can visit their website.
Lee County Economic Development Office: Cultivating Business Growth
The Lee County Economic Development Office (EDO) is committed to providing essential support to local businesses, fostering entrepreneurship, and encouraging incoming enterprises that contribute to a robust economy and thriving communities. The EDO is also focused on workforce development, ensuring individuals have access to skills training and career advancement opportunities.
One of their innovative resources is the Development Activity Story Map, which showcases ongoing private development projects and investment activities in the county. To explore these resources and gain valuable insights, visit the EDO’s website.
The Industry Appreciation Awards are a testament to the collaborative spirit and economic resilience present in Lee County. It’s an event that not only celebrates business achievements but also emphasizes the importance of community, innovation, and growth—a gathering that no local business enthusiast should miss.