Celebration 2026
The Chamber’s Annual Awards Gala is just around the corner, taking place Thursday, April 23rd at Thunderbird Lodge. This special evening celebrates and recognizes the volunteers, businesses, and organizations that reflect the quality and character of what makes our communities such incredible places to live, work, and grow.
We’re honored to recognize this year’s recipients:
2026 Large Business of the Year: Packaging Corporation of America
2026 Small Business of the Year: The Sports Shop
2026 Non-Profit of the Year: International Falls Elks Lodge #1599
2026 Citizen of the Year: Jeff Hardwig
2026 Hospitality Award: Karen Layman, AmericInn by Wyndham
A heartfelt thank you to our sponsors for helping make this evening possible. Your support means so much, and we truly couldn’t do it without you! We look forward to celebrating these outstanding individuals and organizations and the impact they have on our community.
2026 Sponsors
Platinum
 
Gold
Silver
Coca-Cola Bottling Company of Int'l Falls
Pick Me Flowers
MN Power
Paul Bunyan Communications
Old National Bank
Cobblestone Hotel & Suites - International Falls
Essentia Health
Bronze
Borderland Insurance Agents-Tammi Renollet
Koochiching County Historical Society
Camping & Education Foundation
Border Bar & Pizza