Chamber’s Choice Awards
The people and businesses moving Southwest Michigan forward.
The Southwest Michigan First Chamber is proud to celebrate the 2026 Chamber’s Choice Award winners. From entrepreneurs and small businesses to nonprofits and community leaders, this year’s honorees are creating opportunities, bringing people together, and making a lasting impact across Southwest Michigan.
Thank you to LMCU, our presenting sponsor, and all of this year’s sponsors for making this celebration possible. Your support helps us recognize the businesses and leaders who strengthen our region every day.
2026 AWARD WINNERS
Celebrating Business.
Strengthening Community.
Alumna of the Year
Maria Newhouse
Woman-Owned Business of the Year
Colors & Cocktails
BIPOC-Owned Business of the Year
Kalamazoo Forward Ventures
Veteran-Owned Business of the Year
B.C. Pizza
LGBTQIA+-Owned Business of the Year
Kalamazoo Backyard Yogis
Nonprofit of the Year
Communities in Schools
Chamber Member Small Business of the Year
Gull Meadow Farms
Chamber Member Mid/Large Business of the Year
College H.U.N.K.S. Hauling Junk, Moving, Storage Kalamazoo
Entrepreneur of the Year
Dare’l McMillian – M2 McMillian Media
Previous Winners
Thank you to the sponsors of the 2026 Chamber’s Choice Conference and Celebration for bringing our business community together and helping us recognize the people and organizations strengthening Southwest Michigan.
