The Greater Vancouver Chamber (GVC) is proud to announce the finalists for the 2026 Business & Leadership Awards, presented by Riverview Bank. The annual awards recognize exceptional businesses, leaders, and manufacturers whose innovation, leadership, and contributions are helping shape a strong and thriving Southwest Washington.
Established in 2012, the Business & Leadership Awards shine a spotlight on the people and organizations moving the region forward and embodying the Greater Vancouver Chamber’s motto of “Moving Business Forward.” This year’s finalists represent a diverse cross-section of Southwest Washington’s business community and are recognized in five categories: Start-Up to Watch, Small Business, Large Business, Statesperson, and Manufacturer of the Year.
The 2026 finalists are:
- Start-Up to Watch — In Business Five Years or Less
- School of Rock Vancouver
- Tipsy Chicks
- Wash Kings Car Wash
Small Business — Up to 25 Employees
- Blaze Restoration
- ANC Movers
- Kafiex Roasters
Large Business — More Than 25 Employees
- McCord’s Vancouver Toyota
- El Gaucho Vancouver
- MacKay
Statesperson of the Year
- Alishia Topper, Clark County Treasurer
- Katie Favela, City of Ridgefield Councilmember
- Rep. Peter Abbarno, 20th Legislative District
Manufacturer of the Year
- Omega Industries
- The Last U.S. Bag Co.
- United Precision Corporation
“This year’s finalists reflect the incredible range of talent, innovation, and dedication that exists throughout our business community,” said John McDonagh, President & CEO of the Greater Vancouver Chamber. “From entrepreneurs building new businesses to established companies investing in our region and all creating jobs, these organizations and individuals are making a meaningful difference in Southwest Washington. We look forward to bringing the community together to celebrate their achievements and recognize the people who continue to move our region forward.”
The community is invited to celebrate this year’s finalists and honorees on Wednesday, October 14, 2026, from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. at The Heathman Lodge during an in-person awards celebration and VIP Social. The Business & Leadership Awards will also recognize Clark County’s 2026 First Citizen Award honoree, Jon Girod, owner of Quail Homes and founder of Careers in Construction. Presented by Edward Jones, the First Citizen Award is one of Southwest Washington’s longest-standing community honors and recognizes individuals whose leadership, service, volunteerism, and philanthropy have made a lasting impact on the community.
Tickets for the 2026 Business & Leadership Awards VIP Social at The Heathman Lodge are available at VancouverUSA.com/Business-Leadership-Awards.
