High performing minority businesses should apply for recognition as a 2007 minority business of the year by Friday, August 17, 2007. The Bureau of Minority Business Development of the Wisconsin Department of Commerce will present awards in three categories at the Marketplace 2007 Governor’s Conference on Minority Business Development, scheduled October 10-11, 2007 at the Ho-Chunk Casino Hotel and Convention Center, Wisconsin Dells.  http://marketplace.wi.gov/

Award categories:
Outstanding Minority Business (Two awards will be made based on business size).
Rising Star Award for the most exciting and promising young company.
Good Citizen Award to recognize a company’s contributions to society and community.

A panel of judges will evaluate applications on specific criteria.  The top scoring application in each category that meets eligibility criteria will receive recognition.

General Eligibility and Submission Rules:
Applicants must be for-profit minority-owned businesses as defined by the state; that is, at least 51% owned, controlled, and actively managed by Native American, Black, Hispanic, Asian Indian, Asian Pacific, Aleut, Eskimo, or Native Hawaiian minority persons.
Companies must be located in Wisconsin.
A company may enter more than one category, but may win only one award per year.  Judges will make the decision if a company scores well in several categories.
Applicants may self nominate or be nominated by others.
Winners may be asked to verify certain information provided as accurate and truthful.

To win an award:  A company must be in good standing with any government loans (if applicable), be current on taxes, pass a routine background check, and verify that it is eligible to be certified as a Wisconsin minority-owned business.  Winning companies should have a representative at Marketplace 2007 at the October 10th Reception, and on October 11th to receive the award plaque.