Mills invites applications for the Governor’s Award for Business Excellence

At Main Eco Homes, the owner stands in front of a house.

File photo / TIM GREENWAY Main Eco Homes, a general contractor in Bridgton owned by Justin McIver, was one of four recipients of the 2023 Governor's Award for Business Excellence.

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By Laurie Schreiber

Innovation, rural revitalization, heritage industry and climate are the four focus areas of this year’s Governor's Award for Business Excellence.

The Department of Economic and Community Development is accepting applications for the annual award, which was established in 1991 to recognize and celebrate Maine businesses with a high level of commitment to their community and employees, as well as exemplary performance in the manufacturing or service professions.

"Each year, it is my honor to present the Governor's Award for Business Excellence to some of the extraordinary Maine businesses doing their part to make our state the best place to work, live and raise a family,” said Mills.

The award highlights important contributions of the business community to Maine's economy, said Heather Johnson, commissioner of the Department of Economic and Community Development.

In 2023, winners Elmet Technologies, Compotech, Main Eco Homes and TimberHP were recognized as models for economic success. This year, the awards seek to celebrate Maine businesses that consistently strive for excellence.

The categories are:

Innovation Award, which celebrates and recognizes business excellence through entrepreneurship and innovation.
Rural Revitalization Award, which recognizes contributions to the revitalization and growth of Maine's rural regions.
Heritage Industry Award, which recognizes and celebrates business excellence in the agriculture, forestry, manufacturing or marine sector.
Climate Leader Award, which recognizes business leadership, innovation, or excellence in mitigating climate risks or developing new technologies to combat climate change.

Business excellence is epitomized by a balanced combination of manufacturing and service excellence, and a steadfast commitment to employees, customers and the community, according to the department. The award is presented to for-profit companies that demonstrate a consistently high level of attentiveness and dedication in these areas.

Companies may self-nominate and can submit as often as they choose but may only win once. Companies may only be nominated if they have been in business in Maine for at least five years, be in good financial health and good standing with all respective state agencies.

All nominations will be vetted by Maine Revenue Services and any other agency deemed appropriate by those processing the nominations. Nominations for the Innovation award category may be exempt from the five-year rule.

Applications can be submitted through 11:59 p.m. on Oct. 18.

For more information, click here.