To The Stars

To The Stars: Kansas Business Awards

The Kansas Department of Commerce is accepting nominations for the 2026 To The Stars: Kansas Business Awards. The increasingly popular annual award program recognizes companies and individuals around the state for the positive impact they make on the Kansas economy and on their local communities.

During the event, Commerce also will announce the prestigious Governor’s Award of Excellence, the 2026 Governor’s Exporter of the Year, The Randi Tveitaraas Jack International Business Award, and two new inductees of the Kansas Business Hall of Fame. This year’s gala will be held Oct. 8 at the Fiorella’s Event Space in Overland Park.

Award nominations will be accepted until Monday, June 15.

Press Release Nominate Today!

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 2026.

The Department of Commerce will host a Statewide Awards Banquet on October 8 in Overland Park. Who will be named the best of the best in 11 different categories? That’s up to you! It’s time to nominate the company, organization or individual you believe is having significant impact on the economy as well as their local community. Self-nominations are encouraged!

Nominate Today!

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