New Economic Impact Award Category Added for 2026
The Harrisburg Regional Chamber and Capital Region Economic Development Corporation (CREDC) is now accepting nominations for its 2026 Catalyst Awards, which include seven award categories including a new Economic Impact Award.
The Catalyst Awards recognize the organizations and individuals across Cumberland, Dauphin, and Perry Counties who embody what it means to drive economic prosperity. Nominations are open to all, including Chamber members and non-members.
Nominations will be accepted through July 24.
“We are grateful for a region that boasts exceptionally talented individuals and organizations that are doing their part to make our community a more vibrant and economically prosperous place to live, work and play,” said Ryan Unger, president and CEO of the Harrisburg Regional Chamber & CREDC. “The Catalyst Awards are our way of telling the stories of these incredible people, businesses and organizations and recognizing them for their contributions to our region. If you know an individual or business that is doing great things for our community, let us know, and nominate them for a 2026 Catalyst Award.”
The following are the award categories for 2026:
- Catalyst Award – This is the Chamber’s highest honor, recognizing an individual, group or organization whose leadership, innovation and commitment to collaboration have made an extraordinary and lasting contribution to the region’s economic prosperity and quality of life.
- ATHENA Leadership Award – This award recognizes an individual for professional excellence, community service and for actively assisting women in their attainment of professional excellence and leadership skills.
- Diversity Leader of the Year – This award recognizes an individual who has shown exemplary leadership in advancing diversity and inclusion within their organization and community through pioneering programs, initiatives, and/or advocacy.
- Entrepreneur of the Year – This award honors an individual who assumes financial and operational risk to create or grow a business enterprise.
- Public Servant of the Year – This award recognizes a public servant or elected official whose leadership has meaningfully advanced the region’s economic prosperity, quality of life, or community well-being.
- Small Business of the Year – This award honors a small business that demonstrates staying power and innovation and has a strong commitment to the community. The winning business must be a locally owned and operated for-profit entity, headquartered in Cumberland, Dauphin or Perry counties. Total employment may not exceed 100 and annual revenue cannot exceed $20 million.
- Economic Impact Award – New for 2026, this award recognizes a business, non-profit, association, community group, or other organization that has made a measurable impact on the region’s economic prosperity through a specific project or initiative.
Award recipients are chosen by a panel of local business and community leaders deeply rooted in the Capital Region.