The Chairman’s Award is a prestigious honor granted by the Chairman of the Board, HRVCC to recognize an individual or organization who has made extraordinary contributions to the HRVCC. This award is given at the sole discretion of the Chairman and highlights exceptional dedication, innovation, and impact that may not fall under other award categories.

The President’s Award is a special honor bestowed by the President of the HRVCC to recognize an individual or organization who has made extraordinary contributions to the HRVCC or its Foundation. This award is given at the sole discretion of the President and highlights exceptional dedication, innovation, and impact that may not fall under other award categories.

The General Sam Houston Award of Excellence is presented to individuals who have demonstrated exceptional leadership, dedication, and resilience in advancing the mission of the HRVCC Organization.  This prestigious award is inspired by the remarkable achievements of General Sam Houston & VOB, a legendary figure whose contributions to Texas and the United States exemplify the highest standards of service and commitment.

Criteria: (Nomination Form)

• Leadership and Vision: Recipients of this award have shown outstanding leadership and vision, guiding HRVCC to new heights and inspiring others to follow their example. Their strategic thinking and ability to mobilize resources have been instrumental in achieving our organizational goals.
• Advocacy and Representation: Much like General Houston’s role as a statesman and advocate, awardees have tirelessly represented HRVCC in various forums, raising awareness and support for our cause. Their advocacy efforts have significantly advanced our mission and impact.
• Commitment to Inclusivity: Honoring Houston’s dedication to inclusivity and justice, this award recognizes individuals who have promoted diversity and inclusion within HRVCC and the communities we serve. Their efforts have fostered a culture of fairness and equality.
• Resilience and Perseverance: Reflecting Houston’s resilience in the face of challenges, recipients have demonstrated unwavering perseverance and the ability to overcome obstacles. Their determination and strength have been a source of inspiration to all.

Purpose: The General Sam Houston Service Award aims to celebrate and honor those who embody the spirit of General Sam Houston through their exceptional service to HRVCC. By recognizing these individuals, we highlight the importance of leadership, advocacy, inclusivity, and resilience in achieving our mission and making a lasting impact on the lives of those we serve.

Presentation: This award is presented annually at the HRVCC Awards Ceremony, where we come together to celebrate the achievements of our dedicated members and volunteers.  The recipient of the General Sam Houston Service Award will receive a commemorative plaque and a certificate of recognition, symbolizing their outstanding contributions to our organization.  The awardee will also receive a writeup in the HRVCC Publication.

The Veteran Business Award recognizes veteran business owners who have transitioned from entrepreneurship to playing pivotal roles in stabilizing and capacity building of a business within the Houston region. This award celebrates the achievements of veterans who continue to make significant contributions to the business community through their leadership, innovation, dedication, and commitment to sustainability.

Criteria: (Nomination Form)

● Business Growth: Demonstrated significant contributions to the stabilization and expansion of a business, especially in regards to business capacity building.
● Leadership: Exhibited strong leadership qualities, driving success and fostering a positive work environment.
● Innovation: Implemented innovative strategies or solutions that have positively impacted the business.
● Sustainability: Showcased sustainable business practices that ensure long-term growth and a trajectory of sustained success.
● Programs: Developed or supported programs that benefit employees and their families.
● Community Impact: Made meaningful contributions to the community, supporting veteran initiatives or other charitable veteran causes. 

Purpose: Any veteran business owner who has transitioned from entrepreneurship to a key role in expanding a business within the Houston region. The ideal candidate has been in business for at least 5 years or greater. The business must be 51% veteran owned or greater. The recipient will receive a commemorative award, public recognition at the annual awards ceremony, and a feature in the HRVCC newsletter and website.

Presentation: Members can nominate a veteran business owner by submitting a detailed nomination form that includes a summary of the individual’s contributions to business stabilization, leadership qualities, innovative practices, programs, community impact, and commitment. The selection committee will review all nominations and select the recipient based on the established criteria. This award aims to honor and celebrate the outstanding achievements of veteran business owners who continue to drive growth, sustainability, and success within the Houston business community.

The Veteran Business Entrepreneur Award recognizes a veteran-owned business that has demonstrated exceptional entrepreneurial spirit, innovation, and success. This award celebrates the achievements of veteran entrepreneurs who have made significant contributions to the business community and have shown outstanding personal growth, adaptation, leadership and dedication.

Criteria: (Nomination Form)

● Business Success: Demonstrated significant growth, profitability, or market impact.
● Innovation: Implemented innovative strategies or solutions that have driven business success.
● Personal Growth: Demonstrated significant personal development, resilience, and adaptability in overcoming challenges and achieving personal goals.
● Leadership: Exhibited strong leadership qualities, inspiring others and fostering a positive business environment.
● Community Impact: Made a meaningful contribution to the community, supporting veteran initiatives or other charitable causes.
● Sustainability: Showcased sustainable business practices that ensure long-term growth and success.

Purpose: Any veteran-owned business that has shown remarkable entrepreneurial achievements and contributions to the business community. The business must be 51% veteran owned or greater. The recipient will receive a commemorative trophy, public recognition at the annual awards ceremony, and a feature in the HRVCC newsletter and website.

Presentation: Members can nominate a veteran-owned business by submitting a detailed nomination form that includes a summary of the business’s achievements, innovative practices, leadership qualities, personal growth and community impact. The selection committee will review all nominations and select the recipient based on the established criteria. This award aims to honor and celebrate the outstanding achievements of veteran entrepreneurs across the Houston Region, inspiring continued growth and success within the veteran business community and the veteran business ecosystem at large. 

The Veteran Business Innovation Award recognizes a veteran-owned business that has demonstrated exceptional creativity and ingenuity in its operations, products, or services. This award celebrates the innovative spirit of veteran entrepreneurs who have introduced groundbreaking ideas and solutions, significantly impacting their industry and community.

Criteria: (Nomination Form)

● Innovative Solutions: Developed and implemented unique and effective strategies, products, or services that address market needs or solve problems.
● Impact: Demonstrated significant positive impact on the business’s growth, industry, or community through innovative practices.
● Leadership: Exhibited strong leadership in driving innovation and fostering a culture of creativity within the organization.
● Sustainability: Showcased sustainable and forward-thinking practices that ensure long-term success and adaptability.
● Community Engagement: Contributed to the community by supporting veteran initiatives or other charitable causes through innovative approaches.

Purpose: Any veteran-owned business that has shown remarkable innovation and creativity in its operations, products, or services. The business must be 51% veteran owned or greater. The recipient will receive a commemorative trophy, public recognition at the annual awards ceremony, and a feature in the HRVCC newsletter, publication and website.

Presentation: Members can nominate a veteran-owned business by submitting a detailed nomination form that includes a summary of the business’s innovative achievements, impact, leadership qualities, programs, sustainability efforts, and/or community engagement. The selection committee will review all nominations and select the recipient based on the established criteria. This award aims to honor and celebrate the innovative achievements of veteran entrepreneurs, inspiring continued creativity and success within the veteran business community and growth of the veteran business ecosystem.

The Fastest Growing Veteran-Owned Business Award recognizes a veteran-owned business that has demonstrated exceptional growth and success over the past year. This award celebrates the entrepreneurial spirit, dedication, and resilience of veteran business owners who have achieved significant year-over-year growth (from 2022 to 2023).

Criteria: (Nomination Form)

● Year-over-Year Growth: Demonstrated substantial growth in revenue, market share, or other key performance indicators from 2022 to 2023.
● Innovation: Implemented innovative strategies or solutions that have driven business expansion and success.
● Leadership: Exhibited strong leadership and management skills, fostering a positive and productive work environment.
● Community Impact: Contributed positively to the community, supporting veteran initiatives or other charitable causes.
● Sustainability: Showcased sustainable business practices that ensure long-term growth and success.

Purpose: Any veteran-owned business that has shown remarkable growth based on year-over-year statistics from 2022 to 2023. The business must be 51% veteran owned or greater. The recipient will receive a commemorative award, public recognition at the annual awards ceremony, and a feature in the organization’s newsletter, Publication and website.

Presentation: Businesses can be nominated by submitting a detailed nomination form that includes year-over-year growth statistics, a summary of innovative practices, leadership qualities, community impact, and sustainability efforts. The selection committee will review all nominations and select the recipient based on the established criteria. This award aims to honor and celebrate the outstanding achievements of veteran-owned businesses, inspiring continued growth and success within the veteran business community and acting as a guidepost for future veteran business owners.

The Champion of Veteran Owned Businesses Award is presented to businesses that have demonstrated exceptional support and advocacy for Veteran Owned Businesses in the Houston Region. This prestigious award recognizes individuals and companies that have gone above and beyond in their efforts to empower, promote, and collaborate with veteran entrepreneurs, reflecting a deep commitment to the values and contributions of our nation’s veterans.  Top 4 are given each year

Criteria for Selection: (Nomination Form)

● Support and Empowerment: Awardees have actively supported Veteran Owned Businesses through mentorship, funding, and resources. Their efforts have empowered veteran entrepreneurs to thrive and succeed in their ventures.
● Promotion and Advocacy: Recipients have championed the cause of Veteran Owned Businesses by raising awareness and advocating for their interests. Their initiatives have highlighted the unique strengths and contributions of veteran entrepreneurs and the businesses they own.
● Collaboration and Partnership: Honoring businesses that have fostered strong partnerships with Veteran Owned Businesses, this award recognizes those who have created opportunities for collaboration, procurement and growth within the veteran business community.
● Commitment to Veteran Business: Reflecting a deep commitment to the veteran business community, awardees have demonstrated a consistent and meaningful dedication to supporting veterans in their transition to civilian life and business ownership.

Purpose: The Champion of Veteran Owned Businesses Award aims to celebrate and honor businesses that have made significant contributions to the success and recognition of Veteran Owned Businesses in the Houston Region. By recognizing these companies, we highlight the importance of community support, advocacy, and collaboration in fostering a thriving veteran business ecosystem. Nominations can be submitted by anyone who recognizes a business’s outstanding support for Veteran Owned Businesses. This includes employees, partners, clients, or community members. The nominated business must meet specific eligibility criteria, such as demonstrating significant support and advocacy for Veteran Owned Businesses in the Houston Region. This includes providing mentorship, funding, resources, and creating opportunities for collaboration. The recipient will receive a commemorative trophy, public recognition at the annual awards ceremony, and a feature in the HRVCC newsletter and website.

Presentation: This award is presented annually at the HRVCC Awards Ceremony, where we come together to celebrate the achievements of our dedicated members, volunteers, and partners. The recipient of the
Champion of Veteran Owned Businesses Award will receive a commemorative plaque and a certificate of recognition, symbolizing their outstanding contributions to the veteran business community and a brief writeup in our HRVCC publication.

The Veteran Business Community Impact Award recognizes a company or corporation that has made significant contributions to improving the veteran business ecosystem. This award celebrates organizations that have demonstrated exceptional commitment to supporting veteran entrepreneurs, fostering economic growth, and enhancing opportunities for veterans within the business community of the Houston Region.

Criteria: (Nomination Form)

● Support for Veteran Entrepreneurs: Provided substantial resources, mentorship, or funding to help veteran-owned businesses thrive.
● Economic Growth: Contributed to the economic development of the veteran business community through innovative programs or initiatives.
● Partnerships and Collaborations: Established strong partnerships with veteran organizations, creating a network of support and opportunities for veteran entrepreneurs.
● Community Engagement: Actively engaged in community initiatives that benefit veterans and their families, promoting a positive and inclusive environment.
● Leadership and Advocacy: Demonstrated leadership in advocating for veteran business issues and setting an example for other organizations to follow.

Purpose: Any company or corporation that has shown outstanding dedication to improving the veteran business ecosystem and supporting veteran entrepreneurs. The recipient will receive a commemorative trophy, public recognition at the annual awards ceremony, and a feature in the HRVCC newsletter and website.

Presentation: Members can nominate a company or corporation by submitting a detailed nomination form that includes a summary of the organization’s contributions to the veteran business ecosystem, support for veteran entrepreneurs, economic impact, partnerships, community engagement, and leadership. The selection committee will review all nominations and select the recipient based on the established criteria. This award aims to honor and celebrate organizations that make a significant impact on the veteran business community, inspiring continued efforts to support and empower veteran entrepreneurs.

The Outstanding Veteran Employer Award recognizes an organization that has demonstrated exceptional commitment to hiring, supporting, and empowering veterans in the workplace. This award celebrates employers who go above and beyond to create a veteran-friendly environment, providing opportunities for career growth, development, and success.

Criteria: (Nomination Form)

● Veteran Hiring Practices: Demonstrated a strong commitment to hiring veterans and integrating them into the workforce.
● Support Programs: Implemented programs and initiatives that support veterans’ transition to civilian employment, including training, mentorship, veteran support groups and career development opportunities.
● Inclusive Environment: Fostered an inclusive and supportive workplace culture that values the unique skills and experiences of veterans.
● Community Engagement: Actively engaged in community initiatives that support veterans, and their families.
● Leadership: Exhibited leadership in advocating for veteran employment and setting an example for other organizations.

Purpose: Any organization that has shown outstanding dedication to hiring and supporting veterans in the workplace. The recipient will receive a commemorative award, public recognition at the annual awards ceremony, and a feature in the HRVCC newsletter, publication and website.

Presentation: Veterans can nominate an organization by submitting a detailed nomination form that includes a summary of the organization’s veteran hiring practices, support programs, inclusive environment, community engagement, and leadership. The selection committee will review all nominations and select the recipient based on the established criteria. This award aims to honor and celebrate organizations that make a significant impact on the lives of veterans, inspiring continued efforts to support veteran employment and success.

The Member of the Year Award honors a dedicated individual who has been a part of the HRVCC non-profit organization for more than a year and has consistently demonstrated exceptional commitment, leadership, and impact. This award celebrates the ongoing contributions of seasoned members who continue to drive the mission and values of HRVCC forward.

Criteria: (Nomination Form)

● Sustained Engagement: Demonstrated continuous involvement in HRVCC activities, events, and initiatives.
● Leadership: Provided strong leadership and mentorship to newer members, fostering a supportive and collaborative environment.
● Innovation: Contributed innovative ideas and solutions that have significantly benefited the organization.
● Community Impact: Made a meaningful difference in the community through volunteer work, advocacy, or other contributions.
● Teamwork: Exemplified teamwork and cooperation, working effectively with other members and stakeholders.

Purpose: Any member who has been with HRVCC for more than one year and has shown outstanding dedication and performance. The recipient will receive a commemorative plaque, public recognition at the annual awards ceremony, and a feature in the HRVCC newsletter and Publication.

Presentation: Members can nominate a fellow member by submitting a detailed nomination form outlining the nominee’s contributions and achievements. The selection committee will review all nominations and select the recipient based on the established criteria. This award aims to recognize and celebrate the invaluable contributions of long-standing members, inspiring continued excellence and engagement within the HRVCC community.

The New Member of the Year Award recognizes an outstanding individual who has recently joined our organization and has made significant contributions within their first year. This award celebrates the enthusiasm, dedication, and innovative spirit of new members who have quickly become integral parts of our
community.

Criteria: (Nomination Form)

● Active Participation: Demonstrated active involvement in meetings, events, and activities.
● Innovation: Introduced new ideas or initiatives that have positively impacted the organization.
● Collaboration: Fostered a spirit of teamwork and cooperation among members.
● Leadership: Exhibited leadership qualities and taken on responsibilities beyond expectations.
● Community Impact: Made a noticeable difference in the community through volunteer work or other contributions.

Purpose: Any member who has joined the organization within the past year and has shown exceptional commitment and performance. The recipient will receive a commemorative plaque, public recognition at the annual awards ceremony, and a feature in the HRVCC newsletter and Publication.

Presentation: Members can nominate a new member by submitting a detailed nomination form outlining the nominee’s contributions and achievements. The selection committee will review all nominations and select the recipient based on the established criteria. This award aims to encourage and acknowledge the valuable contributions of new members, inspiring continued growth and engagement within our organization.

The 3-Year Membership Pin is a special recognition awarded to members of the Houston Regional Veteran Chamber of Commerce (HRVCC) who have demonstrated unwavering commitment and loyalty by maintaining their membership for three consecutive years. This pin symbolizes dedication,
perseverance, and continuous support for the veteran business community.

Criteria:

● Membership Duration: Must have been an active member of HRVCC for three consecutive years.
● Support: Contributed to the growth and success of the HRVCC through volunteer work, advocacy, or other means.
● Community Spirit: Embodied the values and mission of HRVCC, fostering a sense of community and collaboration among members.

Purpose: Any member who has maintained active membership with HRVCC for three consecutive years. Member must be in good standing. Recipients will receive a distinguished 3-Year Membership Pin, public recognition at the annual awards ceremony, and a feature in the HRVCC newsletter.

Presentation: Members who meet the eligibility criteria will be automatically considered for this award. The selection committee will review membership records and participation to confirm eligibility. This award aims to honor and celebrate the steadfast commitment of long-term members, acknowledging their valuable contributions and encouraging continued engagement within the HRVCC community.