The Chamber Annual Awards Luncheon is the only event that brings together all the businesses in the Natchitoches area to celebrate the achievements of the local business community and its leaders.  Business leaders, entrepreneurs, and businesspersons from every industry will come together Feb. 2 from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. at the Events Center to reflect on the highlights of the previous year.

Since its founding in 1919, the Natchitoches Area Chamber of Commerce has held several annual meetings.  Many presidents have delivered updates to the member investors of the Chamber and nearly 100 chairpersons have spoken to the continued growth of the business community.  Thousands of business professionals over nearly a century of existence have come to participate in this event.  The name of the event, the attendee list, and the itinerary may change, but the purpose and vision of the Chamber has consistently remained the same across the decades: to make Natchitoches the best place to work and live.

The awards are, of course, an important part.  There are currently four categories of businesses recognized: Small, Mid-Size, Large, and New.  First, nominations are made and then votes are cast.  A little friendly competition is supported by an overwhelming community spirit.  There are nearly 400 member investors on the roster of the Chamber, yet exactly 3,600 votes were cast in voting for the best in business.

This event is better each year, having grown nearly 10 percent in attendance each year over the past six years.  Business professionals from out of town, along with those considering bringing their businesses to Natchitoches, are also invited to attend this event.  For those new to the community, this is the event to meet the names behind the success of the best Southern Small Town in America.  The newly graduated business student looking to expand his or her professional network and the long-time resident executive will both enjoy this event.

If you or someone you know is interested in attending the Chamber Annual Awards Luncheon visit NatchitochesChamber.com to register.  Sponsorship opportunities are available for member investors.

The Natchitoches Area Chamber of Commerce helps make Natchitoches Parish the best place to live and work through membership programs and resources, workforce development, legislative advocacy and economic development.  Learn more at NatchitochesChamber.com.

Photo: From the Cammie G. Henry Research Center, a Chamber banquet from the 1970s.