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Home » The Partnership » Programs & Events » Annual Banquet » Nominate for the R. Clay Simmons Business of the Year

Purpose

R. Clay Simmons was an example of the finest in community and business leadership. The R. Clay Simmons Business of the Year Award, recognizes a chamber business that has made outstanding contributions to the community and has manifested superior business practices. Created in 1995, this award is given annually to a chamber business in the greater Starkville area by the R. Clay Simmons Foundation through the Starkville Area Chamber of Commerce. Firms eligible for the award must be for-profit and may be any size.

View past award recipients

Deadline

Applications must be received by 5:00 p.m. on Friday, November 20, 2026.

Criteria for Selection

The following criteria should be addressed as the application is prepared. These criteria are not all-inclusive, as additional descriptions and details may also be used.

  1. CIVIC INVOLVEMENT
    1. Participation by the firm in community advancement activities.
    2. Participation by owners and employees in civic and religious organizations and activities.
  2. EDUCATIONAL ADVANCEMENT
    1. Involvement by the firm in institutions, organizations, and activities devoted to advance education in the area.
    2. Involvement by owners and employees in institutions, organizations, and activities devoted to advancing education in the community.
  3. ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
    1. Participation by the firm in economic development activities.
    2. Creation of new jobs in the community.
    3. Expansion in production or services output and additions of capital facilities and equipment.
    4. Participation by owners and employees in economic development activities.
  4. BUSINESS PRACTICES
    1. Extent of development of sound management and marketing practices.
    2. Innovativeness and creativity
    3. Awards and recognition to the firm or to owners or employees

Selection of Award Winner

The GSDP Executive Board will review the applicants and select the winner. The award will be presented at the annual banquet of the Greater Starkville Development Partnership on Thursday, January 28th, 2027.

Review our best practices sheet before submitting your nomination for this year’s awards.

Nomination Form