The Georgia Chamber of Commerce hs announced the nominations process for the inaugural Georgia Chamber Rural Awards. These awards recognize the outstanding efforts of individuals, businesses, organizations, programs, and communities that have implemented innovative strategies and mission-based initiatives to address challenges and promote prosperity in Georgia’s rural areas. The winners will be celebrated at an awards luncheon during the Rural Prosperity Summit in Tifton, on October 3.

More information about the awards and links to the nominating documents can be found below.

Tiffany Holmes, Director of the Center for Rural Prosperity, said:

“Countless people and organizations are making a difference in our rural communities. The 2024 Rural Awards is an opportunity to recognize all they have accomplished over the last year. I am looking forward to celebrating with the entire Georgia Chamber of Commerce, all that is being done to increase long-term economic prosperity in rural Georgia.”

Award Categories:

1. Rural Champion: This award honors a person, business, organization, or program actively addressing challenges in a rural community. Areas of impact may include healthcare, transportation, community development, economic development, education, agriculture, preservation, infrastructure, housing, placemaking, workforce development, and entrepreneurship.

2. Rural Community of the Year: This award recognizes a rural community that has been successful in addressing challenges and promoting prosperity for its citizens. The winning community will host the Rural Prosperity Council (RPC) for a quarterly meeting the following year.

Important Dates:

• Nominations Due: August 15, 2024

• Award Notification: On or around August 31, 2024

• Awards Luncheon: October 3, 2024

Eligibility: Nominations are open to individuals, businesses, organizations, programs, and communities located or operating within Georgia’s rural counties as identified by the Georgia Chamber Foundation.

Nomination Process: Nominations can be submitted by a staff member of a local chamber of commerce in one of the eligible counties or by a member of the Georgia Chamber’s Rural Prosperity Council. To submit a nomination, please visit the following links:

• Rural Champion Award

• Rural Community of the Year Award

Click here for the Georgia Chamber’s Rural Awards Overview document which provides a detailed list of eligible counties.