During the month of September, the Bay County Chamber of Commerce hosts Industry Appreciation Celebration (IAC), shining a spotlight on companies that help boost the economy and improve quality of life in Bay County. At the month’s most popular event, the IAC Awards Breakfast, five businesses will be awarded for their efforts to build a better Bay in the following categories:

• Business Expansion – The Bay County Business Expansion Award recognizes a local company that expanded its operations in 2018, investing capital and creating jobs for area residents.
• Innovation – The Innovation Award recognizes a Bay County company, organization or institution that, through product or process, best exemplifies innovative leadership.
• Newcomer – The Bay County Newcomer Award is earmarked for a new to local company that began operating within the last five years.
• Manufacturer of the Year – The Manufacturer of the Year Award recognizes a Bay County company that contributes to the local economy while exhibiting excellence in leadership, performance, profitability and workforce relations.
• Small Business – The Bay County Small Business of the Year Award is earmarked for a local business with 10-50 employees, that sets the standard for entrepreneurship and creativity.

There is no application fee for Chamber Members. There is a $50 fee for future Chamber Members.