The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce is now accepting nominations for the 2026 Mel Essex Entrepreneur of the Year Award. Nominations must be submitted by March 2 at 5 p.m. Presented annually at the Athene Beyond Boundaries Business Summit, the Mel Essex Entrepreneur of the Year Award honors the legacy of Mel Essex, an entrepreneur, advocate and mentor. The award celebrates individuals who exemplify Essex’s passion for uplifting entrepreneurs and have made a significant impact by fostering and supporting small-business success and inspiring others to achieve economic independence. “The impact of the Mel Essex Entrepreneur of the Year Award recipients extends far beyond their businesses,” said Kristi Kaye Burma, executive vice president and chief human resources officer at Athene. “Each recipient was recognized for helping strengthen our local economy and create more opportunities within the community.” The 2026 award will be presented at the Beyond Business Boundaries Summit on April 15. To nominate an individual or learn more about the summit, visit bbbsummit.com.
