Nominations for the Kansas Department of Commerce’s annual Business Appreciation Month awards are open until Friday. The awards are a statewide tribute to businesses for their contributions to Kansas and their communities.

The awards will be announced in June in Manhattan. Regional finalists are recognized at an awards ceremony during the Kansas Cavalry Encampment, with the top nominee receiving the Governor’s Award of Excellence.

“These awards highlight the very best of business and industry in Kansas,” Kansas Secretary of Commerce Pat George said. “We want to recognize those businesses that are expanding operations, creating jobs, and investing in their workers and communities.”

Nominations are accepted from chambers of commerce, economic development organizations, small business development centers, organizations, and individuals. Companies may also nominate themselves.

Awards qualifications include business expansion in Kansas, successful employee retention and recruitment, employee training and education programs, capital investment, and support of local school activities, community events, economic development, and leadership programs.

Nominations are due at 5 p.m. Friday. To submit an online nomination, visit http://KansasCommerce.com/BAM. For more information, contact Krista Mellen at (785) 296-7911.