To The Stars

To The Stars: Kansas Business Awards

Businesses and entrepreneurs from across Kansas were honored on October 16 at the Robert W. Plaster Center at Pittsburg State University for their outstanding contributions to Kansas communities and the state economy at the Kansas Department of Commerce’s 2025 To The Stars: Kansas Business Awards ceremony.

A record 431 businesses, organizations and individuals were nominated in 11 categories. Nominees earned Merit Awards or Regional Awards, and one nominee in each category was designated a Statewide Winner.

“The To The Stars: Kansas Business Awards ceremony is more than a banquet — it’s a way to acknowledge and celebrate the business achievements and entrepreneurial spirit that is found in every region of our state,” Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “It’s because of our trailblazing businesses and dedicated individuals that we can keep growing our economy and bringing more opportunities to our communities.”

Press release

2025 Winners Pittsburg

2024 Winners Great Bend

2023 Winners Wichita

2022 Winners Topeka

Award Categories

AgriBusiness

Companies that stand out in the agribusiness industry – including agricultural production, products and services, and agri-tourism.

Apprenticeship Champion

Companies and other entities that excel providing registered apprenticeship programs in Kansas.

Business Innovation

Companies from any sector incorporating innovative technologies in their business.

Healthcare/Nonprofit

Noteworthy services provided by either healthcare facilities or nonprofit organizations.

Main Street Momentum

Businesses revitalizing main streets or neighborhood commercial districts through growth or engagement.

Manufacturing/Distribution

Outstanding achievement for companies of all sizes involved in manufacturing and distribution.

Non-Traditional Talent Pools

Companies that have gone above and beyond to hire those with prior involvement in the justice system, youth, seniors or individuals with disabilities.

Retail/Service

Exceptional performance by businesses selling goods, products and/or services.

Small Business Champion – Corporate Partner Award (State-Level Only)

Honors a corporation that has demonstrated exceptional commitment to small business growth in Kansas through investment and partnerships

Under 30 Entrepreneur

Young entrepreneurs under the age of 30 who are achieving business success.

Welcome Back

Entrepreneurs and businesspeople who once left Kansas but have returned to make their mark in the Sunflower State.

A statewide grand banquet and much more to celebrate in 2025.

The Department of Commerce hosted a Statewide Awards Banquet on October 16th in Pittsburg. During the event, Commerce also announced the prestigious Governor’s Award of Excellence, the 2025 Governor’s Exporter of the Year and the two newest inductees of the Kansas Business Hall of Fame.

Press Release

English