The Lawrence Chamber of Commerce is accepting nominations until 5 p.m. June 1 for its fourth annual Excellence in Commerce awards.

The program honors Douglas County companies that excel in one of five areas: technology, manufacturing/distribution, service, hospitality/retail and small business. A sixth award, the Bob Billings Rising Star Award, is given to an outstanding emerging company.

“Douglas County businesses are essential to our economy and it is exciting to recognize them for their outstanding efforts and excellence,” said Beth Johnson, the chamber’s vice president for economic development. “We encourage anyone who knows of deserving companies to nominate them for the award.”

Nominees will be asked to fill out an application and will be judged on areas ranging from business stability and growth to community involvement. Nomination forms can be found at www.lawrencechamber.com. For more information contact Jamie Blaylock, of the chamber, by telephone at 865-4427, or by e-mail at jblaylock@lawrencechamber.com.