close

Registration opens for 2025 Industry Appreciation Awards

2 min read
article image -

Registration is now open for Lee County’s premier business awards celebration. The 33rd Industry Appreciation Awards luncheon is set for Friday, Oct. 24, at the Caloosa Sound Convention Center in Fort Myers.

Hosted by the Horizon Council, Horizon Foundation and Lee County Economic Development Office, the awards program will recognize 22 companies as finalists across seven categories, including Large Business of the Year, Small Business of the Year, Elevate Award, Startup of the Year Award, Tech Catalyst of the Year Award, Large Manufacturer of the Year and Small Manufacturer of the Year.

The Oct. 24 event will be held at the Caloosa Sound Convention Center, 1375 Monroe St., Fort Myers. The event starts with networking opportunities at 10 a.m. before transitioning to the awards luncheon at 11 a.m. Event tickets for the 2025 Industry Appreciation Awards are $50 each and available online. Registration closes on Oct. 10.

About the Horizon Foundation

The Horizon Foundation was established in 1995-96 to provide a funding vehicle for businesses to invest in Lee County’s long-term economic development and vitality. In 2000, the Horizon Foundation received its IRS ruling as a charitable 501(c)(3) organization. The Foundation raises private-sector money to support efforts of the Lee County Economic Development Office and the Horizon Council to improve the area’s business climate. More information, or call 239-533-6806.

About the Horizon Council

The Horizon Council is a public-private board established in 1991 to advise the Lee Board of County Commissioners on economic development issues. The Council has up to 80 members representing cities; chambers of commerce; economic development and trade organizations; community, business, and education organizations; along with various officers and at-large members. The Horizon Council is the voice of business in Lee County. The Council’s mission is to improve Lee County’s business environment, retain and encourage the expansion of existing businesses, and attract new and diversified employers. It is the only public-private partnership of Lee County Government and business leaders. More information.

About the Lee County Economic Development Office

The Lee County Economic Development Office provides business assistance to retain existing businesses, encourage entrepreneurship and attract new business to provide a strong economy and thriving communities. The office also works to improve opportunities for the workforce to advance skills and have access to career ladders. Lee EDO has published a Development Activity Story Map that allows the public to explore new private development projects and investment activity in the county. More information.