Small Business Dream Big Award

This $2,000 small business award will be presented twice a year giving a small business a financial boost & support entrepreneurism in the Heart of the Valley! Small businesses have a considerable economic impact on our community, they create jobs, spark innovation and provide opportunities for many people, including women and minorities, to achieve financial success and independence.

TDS and the Heart of the Valley Chamber have partnered to create the Dream Big Award. Together, we’ll continue to support small businesses throughout our communities and highlight their achievements and contributions to our local economic growth.

How the Award Can Be Used

The award will support a small business owner with funding to invest in:
•  New products or additional inventory
•  Necessary equipment or office supplies
•  New marketing strategies or services
•  Leadership or skill specific training
•  Payroll, rent, etc.

Apply for the Award

Helping Small Businesses Do Big Things

To be eligible to apply for the Spring round of the Small Business - Dream Big Award, an applicant must: 

  • Be a small business primarily doing business in the Heart of the Valley/Fox Valley area.  
  • Be a for-profit business operating for at least one (1) year primarily within the Heart of Valley/Fox Valley area. 
  • Must be a current member of the Heart of the Valley Chamber of Commerce 
  • Agree to all of the award rules, including attending the awards presentation at Annual Awards Dinner on March 14 at Van Abel’s.
  • Priority will be given to businesses where the Dream Big Award can make the most substantial impact on the operations or growth of the business.

Application Timeline for Spring 2024 Award Cycle

  • January 8 – Application Opens 
  • February 14 – Applications Due 
  • February 20 – Committee determines winner 
  • February 21-23 – Winner notified 
  • March 14 – Award presented at Annual Awards Dinner at Van Abel’s

*Spring Award recipient will receive 2 tickets to Annual Awards Dinner event on March 14th at Van Abel’s of Hollandtown and the award will be presented at the event. 

Congratulations to our Fall 2023 award recipient, Tori Heidemann, owner of Honey Event Planning & Coordination. Tori will utilize the award funds to upgrade her flower cooler.

Award Rules & Details

We are excited to offer a $2,000 cash award designed to empower small businesses like yours by enhancing your product offerings, increasing your inventory, optimizing your workspace, or investing in essential skills and training. With this award, you get that little boost needed to elevate your business!

This new program will provide two business awards each year.  

  • The Fall Award cycle will provide one local female business owner with a cash award which will be presented in October at our Women You Should Know event.  
  • The Spring Award cycle will provide a $2,000 award & is open to all small businesses that are members of the HOTV Chamber.

Award Rules

  • Grant funds cannot be used for debt consolidation or any debt service.
  • The award winner will be responsible for all federal, state and local taxes that may be applicable. 
  • Must provide a current W9.
  • Must attend Annual Awards Dinner on March 14, 2024 at Van Abel’s of Hollandtown. 2 Tickets will be provided. 
  • Must provide a statement of what the grant was used for. 
  • Must submit a photo or headshot and business logo. 
  • Allow Heart of the Valley Chamber staff to conduct an interview to feature social media and newsletter.  
 For more information or questions contact Nicci.