The Bedford County Chamber of Commerce is now accepting nominations for its 2026 awards. As many as sixteen outstanding businesses and individuals will be honored during the Chamber’s Annual Dinner and Awards Celebration: Thursday, September 24th at the Venue at the Stables. The signature celebration of business excellence traditionally sells out, with an audience of more than 350 guests.

Awards include the prestigious John Anderson award, presented to a business or organization that has enriched the county with an outstanding contribution to the community. The Hall of Fame award is presented to an outstanding business whose success spans at least 25 years. The Athena Award is given to an individual who has exhibited excellence in business, community service and mentorship of women. Additional awards will be presented for excellence in business for large, medium and small categories based on number of employees. Achievement will also be recognized in the areas of Agriculture, Education, Volunteerism, Economic Development, Tourism, Innovation, Property Improvement, Historical Preservation, and Servant Leadership.

The Chamber is pleased to partner with a number of local organizations in presenting specific awards, including BCDA, Bedford County Community Connections, and Discover Bedford County.

Nomination forms are available online,  or print forms may be downloaded using the links below.  Chamber members and not-yet-members may be submitted for consideration by a panel of judges from throughout the region. Deadline to submit nominations is Friday, July 3rd.

Online Nomination Link

2026 Award Nomination Print Form

2026 Athena Nomination Form

 For more information, call the Chamber office at 814.623.2233 or email: kellie@bedfordcountychamber.org

2026 Award Honorees: