Spirit of Erie
One Night. A Lasting Impact.
The Spirit of Erie is the Erie Regional Chamber's annual signature event, bringing together business leaders, civic champions, and community builders for an evening that celebrates the people and organizations shaping our region's future.
Each year, the Chamber recognizes individuals, businesses, and organizations whose leadership, innovation, and service are making a lasting impact across the Erie region.
If you attend only one Chamber event each year, make it this one.
Nominations Are Open
Help us celebrate the people and organizations driving Erie forward. Nominations for the next Spirit of Erie Awards are now being accepted.
Award recipients are recognized annually during the Spirit of Erie celebration, where business and community leaders gather to honor excellence, leadership, and impact across the region.
2025 Honorees
The Spirit of Erie celebrates the individuals, businesses, and organizations whose leadership, innovation, and service strengthen our region and help shape Erie's future.
- Spirit of Erie Award: Tim NeCastro
- Catalytic Investment Award: Swing Project, Inc. (Drew Whiting and Chase Rogan)
- Chamber Champion Award: Dr. Chris Clark
- Erie Maker of the Year: Charlie Rutkowski
- Homecoming Boomerang of the Year: Benton Bainbridge
- Small Business of the Year: Blind Tiger, Rebecca A. Styn, Ph.D.
- Louis J. Tullio Community Service Award: Jennie Hagerty and Dr. Rhonda Matthews
- ATHENA PowerLink Recognition: Emily Ernes (Glass Growers Gallery), Christina Vogel (Donatos Pizza), and Dena Rupp (Purrista Cat Café)
Evening Highlights
- Pre-Reception: Open bar, hors d'oeuvres, and time to connect with fellow attendees.
- Awards Dinner: A seated dinner featuring award presentations and inspiring stories from Erie's leaders and changemakers.
- Post-Reception Celebration: Coffee, dessert, and additional networking with some of Erie's best and brightest.
Get Involved
Sponsorship opportunities and event registration become available each summer. Sponsors receive valuable visibility among Erie's business and community leaders while helping make this premier celebration possible.
Interested in sponsoring Spirit of Erie or learning more about Chamber events? Email [email protected].
