Crowd at the Kenney Awards looking at stage and speaker

The Kenney Awards

You’ve experienced the Grammys and the Emmys, but are you ready for the Kenneys?

The Kennebec Valley Chamber of Commerce host the event of the season called the Kenney Awards, an annual celebration honoring local businesses and professionals. Named after our beloved region, the Kenneys recognize the outstanding contributions of individuals and organizations that have made a lasting impact on the Kennebec Valley. Join us as we shine a spotlight on the remarkable achievements that make our community thrive!

Meet your 2026 Kenney Award Winners!

Beacon of the Valley Award 

This award honors an individual whose leadership and dedication serve as a guiding light for the Kennebec Valley. Through advocacy, volunteerism, and a deep commitment to the community, this honoree has made a lasting impact—driving progress and helping to build a stronger, more vibrant Kennebec Valley.

Three people receiving award on stage

Sawyer Boulette

Finalists: Lina Michaud, Cory Nason

Non-Profit of the Year Award

This award honors a non-profit organization in Kennebec Valley that has demonstrated outstanding service, innovation, and leadership in meeting the needs of our community. With its efforts, the recipient has made a significant difference in the lives of others, showing exceptional commitment to advancing social good.

Several staff members receiving award on stage

Sexual Assault Crisis & Support Center

Finalists: Maine Recovery Access Project, Spectrum Generations

Small Business of the Year Award

This award honors a small business (fewer than 15 employees) that has shown excellence in growth, customer service, innovation, and community involvement. The recipient demonstrates the core values of entrepreneurship, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to Kennebec Valley's local economy and culture.

Five staff members receiving award on stage

Pinto Thai To Go

Finalists: Lisa's Legit Burritos, TJ's Place

CYNERGY Emerging Professional Award

This award recognizes an outstanding professional who has demonstrated exceptional leadership, innovation, and commitment to both their career and the Kennebec Valley community. The recipient of this award has shown promise in driving positive change and setting a strong example for future leaders in our region.

Man, woman and child receiving award on stage

Joe Lajoie

Heartbeat of the Community Award 

This award celebrates a business in Kennebec Valley that exemplifies the heart and spirit of our community. The winner is a business that not only excels in its industry but also actively contributes to the well-being and vibrancy of the region through charitable work, volunteerism, and community engagement.

Two men on stage receiving award

Windsor Fair

Special Service Award 

This award honors an individual whose extraordinary commitment and service have made a lasting impact on the people and communities of the Kennebec Valley. It recognizes a lifetime of dedication to improving the lives of others through leadership, compassion, and an unwavering sense of responsibility to the greater good.

Two women receiving award on stage

Paul Stein

Large Business of the Year Award 

This award recognizes a large business (15 or more employees) for its significant impact on the local economy and community. The winner has demonstrated leadership in both business excellence and social responsibility, while fostering a positive workplace culture and contributing to the region's economic development.

Man and two women receiving award on stage

Goggin's IGA

Business Person of the Year 

This prestigious award recognizes an individual who has made a remarkable impact through their professional leadership, vision, and dedication to the Kennebec Valley business community. The recipient is a role model for ethical business practices and has been instrumental in shaping the success of their industry and region.

Man and woman on stage receiving award

Bill Logan

Thank you to our 2026 Sponsors!

Presenting Sponsor

Hammond Lumber Company logo

Headlining Sponsors

Central Maine Power - An Avangrid Company logo
Central Maine Pyrotechnics
Cross Insurance logo
Headlight Audio Visual Video logo
Mpowered Executive Coaching and Leadership Development Services logo

VIP Reception Sponsor

Performance Foodservice - NorthCenter logo

Red Carpet Sponsor

Dave's World Awesome logo

Dinner Sponsor

University of Maine at Augusta logo

Video Sponsor

Serra Public Affairs logo

Live Voting Sponsor

The Law Offices of Bourget & Banda logo

Program Sponsor

Marketplace at Augusta logo

Photo Booth Sponsor

Rocky's Stove Shoppe & Chimney Service logo

Entertainment Sponsor

Charter Communications logo

Bar Sponsor

Gosline Insurance logo

Media Sponsor

Turner Publishing Incorporated logo

Platinum Sponsors

Augusta Civic Center logo
Team EJP Water - Wastewater - Stormwater Solutions logo
G&E Roofing logo
Lajoie Brothers Corporation logo

COCKTAIL HOUR SPONSOR

Northeast Bank, FSB

DESSERT SPONSOR

Listings Direct

DOOR PRIZE SPONSORS

Cape Air

Union Office Interiors

Kennebec Valley Chamber of Commerce
105 Second St., Ste 1B
Hallowell, ME 04347
Phone: 207-623-4559
Fax: 207-626-9342
info@KennebecValleyChamber.com

Office Hours
8:30 to 5:00 Monday - Thursday
8:30 to 4:00 Friday