TIME TO CELEBRATE! Winners of this year's Bravo to Business were announced on Sept. 21 across five categories. (Photo via Eau Claire Chamber of Commerce)

The Eau Claire Area Chamber of Commerce celebrated finalists and winners of this year’s Bravo to Business awards on Thursday, Sept. 21, at the Florian Gardens Conference Center.

After receiving nominations through June 30, three finalists per category – Small Business of the Year (less than 50 full-time employees), Business of the Year (more than 50 full-time employees), Emerging Business of the Year, Resilient Business of the Year, and Young Professionals Best Place to Work – were announced prior to the awards ceremony.

Nearly 250 Chamber investors attended the ceremony, honoring the 15 area businesses nominated for their significant roles in the community, setting standards for excellence and innovation through business practices and community involvement.

The 2023 Bravo to Business nominees and winners:

Emerging Business of the Year
Winner: Wisconsin Makers Market
Nominees: Green Fleet, Natural Health and Allergy, Wisconsin Makers Market

Resilient Business of the Year
Winner: Eau Claire Energy Cooperative
Nominees: Eau Claire Energy Cooperative, REACH – Regional Enterprises for Adults and Children

Young Professionals Best Place to Work
Winner: Ayres Associates
Nominees: Bauman Associates Ltd., Chippewa Valley Technical College, Ayres Associates

Small Business of the Year
Winner: Ferguson’s Orchards
Nominees: Atmosphere Commercial Interiors, Bauman Associates Ltd., Cowboy Jack’s, Ferguson’s Orchards, Natural Health and Allergy

Business of the Year:
Winner: Royal Credit Union
Nominees: Minnesota Wire & Cable, Royal Credit Union

Learn more about this year's Bravo to Business winners and nominees online.