Business of the Year Award

Recognizing Outstanding Investor Business

The Business of the Year Award honors a Greater Ottumwa Partners in Progress (GOPIP) member business that exemplifies outstanding community leadership, engagement with GOPIP initiatives, and a workplace culture that promotes growth and prosperity in Ottumwa and the surrounding area.

Nomination Criteria

To be considered for the Business of the Year Award, the nominee must:

  • Be a GOPIP member in good standing for at least one year.
  • Demonstrate active involvement in the community through service, partnerships, or initiatives that make a positive impact.
  • Participate meaningfully in GOPIP programs, events, or initiatives.
  • Exhibit a positive business culture that contributes to employee satisfaction, innovation, and long-term growth.
  • Show measurable achievements or unique contributions during the previous year.

Nominations may be submitted by any GOPIP member. Self-nominations are not permitted. Businesses represented on the GOPIP Board or Awards Committee may be nominated but must recuse themselves from the selection process. Previous recipients are not eligible for nomination for a period of five years.

Evaluation Categories

Community Involvement
How does the business lead or actively engage in the Ottumwa-area community?
Consider examples such as charitable partnerships, volunteer efforts, public events, or civic engagement.

GOPIP Participation
In what ways has the business supported or participated in Greater Ottumwa Partners in Progress?
This may include event attendance, committee service, sponsorship, or collaboration with GOPIP programs and initiatives.

Business Culture & Impact
What sets this business apart over the past calendar year?
Highlight workplace culture, innovation, significant achievements, or how the business contributed to community and economic growth.

Selection Process

  • Nominations will open on 8/15/25 and close on 9/15/25.
  • All nominations must include specific examples and supporting details that illustrate the nominee’s qualifications in each category.
  • The GOPIP Awards Committee will review all valid nominations and present a final recommendation to the Board of Directors for approval.

Recognition

  • All nominees will be notified prior to the Annual Banquet.
  • Nominees will be honored during the Annual Banquet on Thursday, October 16, 2025.
  • One nominee is awarded Business of the Year at the Annual Banquet.
  • The selected recipient will receive:
    • A commemorative plaque
    • Recognition across GOPIP’s social media platforms, website, and newsletter
    • A press release shared with local media partners

Business of the Year Award