Our 2026 LACC Annual Banquet will be held on Wednesday, March 25th, to honor our 2025 award recipients. Contact the Chamber office for tickets.
Each year in March, the Lead Area Chamber of Commerce will hold its Annual Banquet. This ticketed event is open to chamber and community members and awards are given in the following categories:
Thomas J. Grier Award
An individual who has demonstrated a positive impact on Lead through their efforts in volunteering and other community service.
Lead the Way Award
An individual or business that has demonstrated their belief in the future of Lead by making a significant investment in their business in the past year.
Miles Beyond Ordinary Award
A new LACC member business that has shown grit, courage and innovation in starting.
Phoebe Hearst Education Award
An individual who exhibits excellence in education and who inspires those whom they serve. Someone whose time and commitment is invested in shaping those around them.
Business or Org Member of the Year Award
An organization that has exhibited commitment and help to the Chamber and community.
Chamber Champion of the Year Award
An individual who has gone above and beyond to promote the Chamber and its mission.
2024 Award Winners
(L to R: Wade Rees – Society 605 Salon, Carol Oolman – Miners & Merchants
Brianne Alley, Sierra Ward, Amanda Bender
Not pictured: Nick Bennett – Dakota Shivers Brewing)
Our 2024 award winners are:
Thomas J. Grier Award: Brianne Alley
Lead the Way Award: Dakota Shivers Brewing
Miles Beyond Ordinary Award: Society 605 Salon
Phoebe Hearst Education Award: Amanda Bender
Business or Org Member of the Year Award: Miners & Merchants Trading Post
Chamber Champion of the Year Award: Sierra Ward
Our 2023 award winners are:
Thomas J. Grier Award: Taylor Ballert
Lead the Way Award: Jenn Bennett Gnarly Pine Makerspace
Miles Beyond Ordinary Award: That Place in Lead
Phoebe Hearst Education Award: Nick & Jenn Bennett
Business or Org Member of the Year Award: Lynn’s DakotaMart & Coeur Wharf
Chamber Champion of the Year Award: Teresa Cox