The Lawrence Chamber of Commerce has announced the creation of the Business of the Year award program. Designed to recognize and celebrate the innovation and entrepreneurial spirit of business community leaders, the award will be presented annually and consist of both a small (1-25 employees) and large (26 or more employees) category.

Nominations may be submitted by company clients, customers, vendors or the company itself. Forms can be found at lawrencechamber.com. All nominations should be directed to Adam Handshy at ahandshy@lawrencechamber.com, or mailed to his attention at 734 Vt., Suite 101, Lawrence, KS 66044. Nominations must be received no later than 4 p.m. Friday.

Business of the Year recipients will be honored during an awards luncheon from noon to 1 p.m. Oct. 1 at SpringHill Suites by Marriott, 1 Riverfront Plaza. The event is open to all Lawrence Chamber members and is $25 to attend.