Doors open at 5:00 p.m.. Grab a cocktail from the cash bar and enjoy the beautiful views of Cedar Oaks as the sun sets over the Blue Ridge Mountains. There will be plenty of time for networking, and we are always graciously joined by civic, community, and commercial leaders from across the region. One of the Annual Gala's most renowned features is its extensive silent auction; last year, over 40 businesses and individuals graciously donated!

Dinner will be served starting at 6:00 p.m.. At 7:15 p.m., the awards presentation will begin. After all awards recipients have been revealed and honored, guests are invited to collect their silent auction items and depart for the evening.

We will have an ATM on-site, but please bring cash with you if you're able to. We will have a 50/50 raffle, cash bar, and cashing out of the silent auction is always easier with actual cash -- it also means we don't incur fees from our card reader. Guests are also encouraged to dress their best!

If you have a dietary restriction or require mobility accommodations, please reach out to Foster Garrett at marketing@baccva.org.

The Excellence in Business Awards were created to honor Bedford area businesses, organizations, and individuals for their innovation; to celebrate their vision; and to publicly appreciate their contributions to the quality of life in our community and within their own organizations.

Award Criteria

• While individual criteria differ by category, emphasis on innovation, staying power, and overall integrity of business practices will be considered.
• All nominees should be a member in good standing of the Bedford Area Chamber of Commerce.
• Anyone can nominate an organization or individual. Self-nominations are welcome. An organization can be nominated for more than one award category. Multiple nominations do not influence the selection of finalists. Nominations closed on May 1.

Award Selection Process

• The contact person listed on the nomination form receives a questionnaire. Only nominees who return the questionnaire with full details are considered for the slate of finalists. This questionnaire is the only information utilized in the determination of the award recipients — not reputation, relationships, or outside knowledge.
• A selection committee scores the questionnaires using a ranking system based on award criteria and selects the recipient for each category.
• All finalists will be invited to attend the Annual Gala on September 25, 2025, where recipients in each award category will be revealed for the first time.

Award Categories

Large Business of the Year:  A company of 51 or greater employees that has made a significant contribution to the growth of Bedford; is recognized for the integrity of its business operations; and has demonstrated an active interest in civic and benevolent activities in the area.

Small Business of the Year:  A company of 50 or fewer employees that has made a significant contribution to the growth of Bedford; is recognized for the integrity of its business operations; and has demonstrated an active interest in civic and benevolent activities in the area.

Agricultural of the Year:  A business or organization primarily involved in agricultural input, production, output, promotion, or education that has contributed significantly to the advancement of agriculture in the Bedford area. Examples include wineries, orchards, farms, stables, farmers markets, etc.

Nonprofit of the Year:  A nonprofit organization as defined by the IRS that displays a commitment to good and ethical business practices and provides outstanding programs/services that directly impact the Bedford area.

Rising Star Award:  An emerging business started in the last 5 years whose record reflects ongoing and exceptional growth and increased levels of leadership, responsibility, and sphere of impact.

Boss of the Year:  An outstanding business leader who exemplifies integrity, innovation, and dedication to their employees and the Bedford community. This individual fosters a positive workplace culture, demonstrates exceptional leadership, and actively supports professional growth and development within their organization.

Employee of the Year:  A dedicated and hardworking employee who goes above and beyond in their role, making a significant impact within their organization and the Bedford community. This individual demonstrates a strong work ethic, outstanding customer service, and a commitment to teamwork and excellence.

Fables & Feathers Winery, Small Business of the Year

Foster Fuels, Large Business of the Year

Bedford Community Christmas Station, Nonprofit of the Year

Turman Forest Products, Agri-Business of the Year

Zen Edge, Rising Star Award

Sheriff Mike Miller (Bedford County Sheriff's Office), Citizen of the Year

Patti Jurkus (Centra Bedford Memorial Hospital), Lifetime Achievement Award