SICCI is encouraging provincial businesses and SMEs to enter the expanded 2026 Business Excellence Awards.
The Solomon Islands Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SICCI) is encouraging businesses in the provinces and small and medium enterprises (SMEs) to participate in the ninth annual Business Excellence Awards, as it seeks broader representation from across the country.
SICCI Chief Executive Officer James Dolarii said the Chamber expects strong participation from businesses outside Honiara and will use its communication networks to reach potential nominees.
“We encourage the participation of businesses from the provinces. We anticipate there will be a lot of participation from provincial-based businesses in this year’s Business Excellence Awards,” Dolarii said.
The 2026 awards programme has expanded significantly, increasing from 12 to 21 categories, with the Prime Minister’s Award bringing the total number of awards to 22.
A dedicated SME category has also been introduced to give smaller businesses an opportunity to gain recognition alongside larger and more established companies.
Dolarii said SICCI will make greater use of radio, social media and its existing networks with businesses in the provinces to promote the awards and encourage nominations.
“We will fully utilise our communication channels, including our radio programme with SIBC and our social media platforms, to really reach out to businesses across the provinces,” he said.
SICCI says the awards are designed not only to recognise business success, but also to highlight the resilience and adaptability of Solomon Islands businesses and encourage a shift towards creating new opportunities for growth and innovation.
The Chamber also aims to strengthen partnerships between the private sector, Government and development stakeholders while promoting innovation, investment, employment and sustainable economic growth.
About 420 people attended the 2024 awards, and organisers expect a larger turnout this year.
Dolarii said the expected growth in participation was one reason SICCI selected a larger venue for the event.
“We anticipate the numbers will grow bigger in terms of the event, and that’s why we chose a bigger venue for this year’s event,” he said.
The ninth Business Excellence Awards will be held on 7 November 2026 at Friendship Hall in Panatina under the theme, “From Resilience to Empowerment, Elevating Business Excellence Together.”
By; Steven Kamoa
