The Huron Chamber of Commerce is inviting restaurants, caterers, bakeries and other food businesses from across Huron County to propose something special for the 2026 Spirit of Success Awards Gala.
As Spirit of Success begins its third decade, the Chamber is introducing a new culinary showcase that will give guests an opportunity to discover food from several local providers throughout the evening. The traditional single-caterer, plated dinner will be replaced by a selection of food stations featuring appetizers, main-course dishes, sides, desserts and other offerings.
The 21st annual Spirit of Success Awards Gala will take place Wednesday, November 18, at Libro Community Hall in Clinton.
“Spirit of Success has always been about recognizing the businesses and organizations doing exceptional work across Huron County,” said Colin Carmichael, Executive Director of the Huron Chamber of Commerce. “This new approach allows the food served at the gala to become part of that celebration. We want to introduce guests to more of the restaurants, bakeries, caterers and specialty food businesses contributing to the character of our communities.”
Businesses may propose one signature item, several complementary dishes or a larger food-station concept. The Chamber is interested in established customer favourites, distinctive specialties, culturally diverse offerings, dishes a business would like to become better known for, or ideas developed specifically for the gala.
Proposals are welcome from full-service caterers, restaurants, bakeries, mobile vendors, niche food businesses and providers that may not ordinarily undertake large-scale catering. No individual vendor will be expected to prepare a complete meal for every guest. Instead, the overall food requirement will be divided among the participating businesses, with the Chamber coordinating the menu to achieve an appropriate balance and variety.
Selected vendors will generally operate stations around Libro Community Hall, allowing guests to circulate and sample several offerings. Passed appetizers may also be proposed. Vendors will have space to promote their businesses through signage, menus, brochures, branded displays and other appropriate materials.
At this stage, the Chamber is primarily seeking creative and workable ideas rather than detailed catering quotations. Proposals will be considered based on food quality and originality, menu variety, presentation, dietary options, practical requirements and representation from different communities and types of food businesses.
Proposals must be submitted by 4 p.m. on Friday, August 21, 2026. Full submission requirements and event details are available in the Call for Culinary Proposals document that can be downloaded from the button below.
The Huron Chamber of Commerce is one of Canada’s fastest growing Chambers, connecting community leaders since 1990. Representing businesses across Huron County, the Chamber focuses on growing the local economy, supporting business success, and strengthening our towns and villages. As an independent, non-profit organization, the Chamber advocates for business and community interests, facilitates collaboration, and convenes stakeholders to develop and support a vibrant and thriving county.
