Nominations are open for the 2026 Elgin Image Awards which celebrates individuals, projects, and organizations that have made outstanding contributions to the Elgin community. Offered by the Enhancing Elgin Committee, a group of volunteers with the Elgin Development Group, a program of the Elgin Area Chamber, this prestigious program helps to promote why Elgin is a great place to live, work, learn, do business, get involved, visit, and enjoy.
The Elgin Image Awards honor those who are making a powerful difference in the City of Elgin by positively shaping the community's image. Elgin Area Chamber of Commerce's Carol Gieske said, "By celebrating those who elevate Elgin's image, we inspire others to continue building a vibrant, inclusive, and thriving community."
Nominations are open to the public and can be submitted online at elgindevelopment.com/elgin-image-awards/. The deadline for submissions is Monday, September 21 at 5 p.m. A panel of judges will evaluate nominations based on the impact, creativity, innovation, and commitment of the nominees toward enhancing the Elgin community.
The awards will be presented at a special ceremony on Tuesday, October 20, at The Centre of Elgin Heritage Ballroom, 100 Symphony Way, in Elgin.
"The Elgin Image Awards go beyond recognition; they highlight the strength of community spirit and the lasting impact dedicated individuals, projects, and organizations can have on our city's future," said Natalie Kiburg, Enhancing Elgin Co-Chair and Gail Borden Public Library Director of Development.
Award categories recognize excellence in various categories that highlight the best Elgin has to offer:
Professional Rockstar: Nominate individuals who have significantly improved Elgin's image through their professional achievements, whether through lifelong dedication or emerging leadership.
Volunteer Extraordinaire: Recognize exceptional individuals whose volunteer efforts have had a profound impact on Elgin's image, either through long-term contributions or as emerging leaders.
Gamechanger Projects: Submit nominations for specific community projects that have positively influenced Elgin's image, showcasing innovation, creativity, and positive change.
Creating a Difference Groups: Nominate outstanding organizations or businesses that have contributed significantly to enhancing Elgin's image through their dedicated efforts.
Green Initiative/Sustainable Business of the Year: Acknowledge businesses or initiatives that have demonstrated exceptional commitment to environmental sustainability, contributing to a greener and more sustainable Elgin.
Excellence in DEI or Building Equity: Submit nominations for individuals, projects, or organizations that have shown outstanding dedication to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion in Elgin, fostering a more harmonious and inclusive community.
Youth Service Project: Encourage nominations for inspiring youth-led service projects by individuals aged 21 and under, showcasing the potential of young minds in shaping a better future for Elgin.
For more information about the Elgin Image Awards, visit elgindevelopment.com/elgin-image-awards/.
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