Spotlight Awards 2026

Tuesday Oct 13, 2026
6:00 PM - 8:30

The Nineteenth Century Charitable Association
178 Forest Ave, Oak Park, IL 60301

To purchase event tickets or learn more, Click Here!

A Night to Celebrate Small Business & Strengthen Our Community

The Spotlight Awards isn’t just about honoring the best of Oak Park and River Forest. It’s also a moment to highlight the exciting new ways we’re working to support local businesses through the Chamber’s evolving programs, Every year, we’ll gather 150+ community leaders, entrepreneurs, and neighbors for a night that’s part awards ceremony, part party, and all heart. We’ll celebrate the small businesses and organizations whose spirit, creativity, and dedication keep our community thriving.

What does an award mean?

The OPRF Spotlight Awards are more than a celebration. They are a reflection of who we are as a business community. These awards honor the individuals and organizations that strengthen our local economy and lead with integrity and excellence.

In addition to receiving a commemorative award, each winner will be featured in the Chamber newsletter and website throughout the year.

Click here to submit your Nominations!
*Nominations will close August 16*

Award Categories

New & Notable

This award recognizes a business, non-profit, or organization that opened between 2024–2026 and has already made a meaningful impact through innovation, engagement, and creativity.

Health & Wellness Award

This new award honors organizations dedicated to improving the physical, mental, or emotional well-being of our residents. It recognizes leadership in care, prevention, education, and support services.

Non-Profit of the Year Award

This new award recognizes a mission-driven organization that demonstrates measurable impact, strong leadership, and meaningful community engagement.

Excellent Eats

This award represents culinary excellence and hospitality leadership in our community. It honors a restaurant, bakery, or catering service that not only serves exceptional food, but also creates memorable experiences, supports fellow local businesses, and contributes to the vibrancy of Oak Park and River Forest’s dining scene.

Chamber Ambassador of the Year ​

This new award celebrates a member who truly embodies the spirit of the Chamber. Whether through volunteering, mentoring, sponsoring, or consistently showing up, this individual strengthens connections and champions fellow members.

The OPRF Choice Award

The new OPRF Choice Award is the highest honor presented by the Oak Park-River Forest Chamber of Commerce. It recognizes a business that exemplifies excellence in leadership, growth, community engagement, and overall impact.

This award celebrates an organization that not only succeeds professionally, but also actively strengthens the local economy, supports fellow businesses, and contributes to the vitality of Oak Park and River Forest.

After all of the nominations are gathered, the top choices will be up for a final vote by the attendees of the Spotlight Awards. The winner will be decided the night of the awards.

Check Out Past Event Photos!