Hardin County Chamber of Commerce

The Hardin County Chamber of Commerce will present the The Ronnie J. Pence Chamber Award at the 2026 Hardin County Chamber Annual Meeting & Awards Program.

The Ronnie J. Pence Chamber Champion Award recognizes an individual who has committed an exemplary effort toward an initiative or initiatives important to the Chamber’s mission.

To nominate an individual, please complete the nomination form below. Please describe why this person is outstanding and meets the above criteria. Supporting information may be attached.

Deadline for submitting a nomination is June 30, 2026

The Hardin County Chamber of Commerce will present the Excellence in Government Award at the 2026 Hardin County Chamber Annual Meeting & Awards Program.

Excellence in Government Award recognizes any official (either elected or appointed) who has performed a particular service or overall effectiveness in office on behalf of the residents of Hardin County and has demonstrated commitment to supporting business.

• Currently serving in any level of government (local, state, federal) or has been out of office no more than two years

To nominate an individual, please complete the nomination form below. Please describe why this business is outstanding and meets the above criteria. Supporting information may be attached.

Deadline for submitting a nomination is June 30, 2026

The Hardin County Chamber of Commerce will present the CHAMBER HALL OF FAME AWARD at the 2026 Hardin County Chamber Annual Meeting & Awards Program.

THE HALL OF FAME AWARD recognizes a local business or individual for long term contributions to the economy and community. To be considered, the nominee should have been operating in the Hardin County market for ten or more years.

To nominate an individual or organization, please complete the nomination form below. Please describe why this person is outstanding and meets the above criteria. Supporting information may be attached.

Deadline for submitting a nomination is June 30, 2026

The Hardin County Chamber of Commerce will present the QUALITY OF PLACE AWARD at the 2026 Hardin County Chamber Annual Meeting & Awards Program.

THE QUALITY OF PLACE AWARD recognizes an individual, entity and/or organization that has made a positive difference in the lives of our citizens and works to make Hardin County a better place to live, work and visit.

• Has made a significant economic, social or environmental impact on the community
• Is a public use project, facility or initiative that impacts the community at large
• Promotes, develops or creates business growth or tourism, recreational, cultural or community assets or amenities

To nominate for this award, please complete the nomination form below. Please describe why this entity is outstanding and meets the above criteria. Supporting information may be attached.

Deadline for submitting a nomination is June 30, 2026

The Hardin County Chamber of Commerce will present the RALPH REESE FORT KNOX/COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIP AWARD at the 2026 Hardin County Chamber Annual Meeting & Awards Program.

THE RALPH REESE FORT KNOX/COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIP AWARD recognizes an individual or business who has committed an exemplary effort toward an initiative or initiatives important to the military and community partnership between Fort Knox and Hardin County. It is named in honor of World War II Veteran and Hardin County community leader and icon, Ralph Reese.

To nominate an individual or organization, please complete the nomination form below. Please describe why this nominee is outstanding and meets the above criteria. Supporting information may be attached.

Deadline for submitting a nomination is June 30, 2026

The Hardin County Chamber of Commerce will present the RISING STAR AWARD at the 2026 Hardin County Chamber Annual Meeting & Awards Program.

THE RISING STAR AWARD recognizes an up and coming business whose professional success is matched by its commitment to serving our community. This is for businesses in operation for two years or less.

• the business demonstrates excellence, creativity and initiative in their profession
• the business provides value services by contributing time and energy to improve the quality of life for others in the community
• the business must be a current member of the Hardin Co. Chamber of Commerce.

To nominate a business, individual or organization, please complete the nomination form below. Please describe why this business is outstanding and meets the above criteria. Supporting information may be attached.

Deadline for submitting a nomination is June 30, 2026

Nominee must be under the age of 40

• Must demonstrate creativity, innovation, character, consistency and excellence in their field
• Exemplify outstanding professional growth and community engagement
• Make significant contributions to the community through work and volunteer activities
• Must be a member of the Hardin County Chamber of Commerce

Deadline for submitting a nomination is June 30, 2026