Marketplace 2007 Minority Business Awards

For Immediate Release: August 13, 2007
Contact: Tony Hozeny, Department of Commerce, 608/267-9661

Call for Applications

MADISON - High-performing minority businesses should apply for recognition as a 2007 minority business of the year. The Bureau of Minority Business Development of the Wisconsin Department of Commerce (Commerce) will present awards in three categories at the Marketplace 2007 Governor's Conference on Minority Business Development, October 10-11, 2007 at the Ho-Chunk Casino Hotel and Convention Center, Wisconsin Dells. The deadline for entries is Friday, August 31, 2007.

"I encourage minority-owned businesses to tell us their 2007 success stories," said Commerce Secretary Mary P. Burke. "Whether it is a contribution to the growth of their own company or its community, Governor Doyle and I welcome the opportunity to showcase the 'best of the best' of Wisconsin's diverse businesses economy."

The three award categories are:

• 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 will receive:

• Recognition during Marketplace - an award winners' reception the evening of October 10 and receipt of a plaque during the Governor's Luncheon on October 11.
• Free registration to Marketplace 2007 events for recipient and one guest
• A press kit that can be used for public relations
• Recognition in an award-winners' press release
• Posting on the Commerce website

Eligibility and submission rules and conference registration information can be found on the Marketplace website - http://marketplace.wi.gov

Anyone having questions may contact Cheryl Gain at 608/261-7721 or Cheryl.Gain@wisconsin.gov, or Anne Thundercloud, 608/266-9467 or Anne.thundercloud@wisconsin.gov.

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