Annual Meeting & Awards
When
Thu, Jan. 21
2027, 8:30 to 10:30 AM
Tickets
$35 members
$45 future members. Full breakfast buffet included
In the room
75+ guests
Members, the Board and elected officials
The morning
The Chamber's biggest morning of the year
Every January, the Outer Banks Chamber of Commerce brings its members together to celebrate what local business accomplished, welcome the new Board Chair and set the tone for the year ahead. Come for breakfast, stay for the awards, and leave knowing more people than when you walked in.
8:30 AM Breakfast buffet and networking
Welcome from Chamber President and CEO Hunter Walsh
2026 in review and the annual awards
Passing of the gavel to the 2027 Board Chair
Looking ahead to 2027 for Outer Banks business

The 2027 awards
Know someone who made a difference?
Nominations are open for the awards below. Tell us who deserves the spotlight and why. Winners are announced on stage at the Annual Meeting. Nominations close Friday, December 18, 2026.
Chamber Member of the Year
A member business that showed up for the Chamber and the community all year long.
2025 honoree
Mueller Builders, LLC
Community Champion
A person or business whose work made the Outer Banks a better place to live and work.
2025 honoree
NC Senator Bobby Hanig
Community Business Partner of the Year
A business that partnered with others to lift the whole community, not just its own bottom line.
2025 honoree
Rick Loesch, East Carolina Media
Chamber Volunteer of the Year
The volunteer who gave their time to Chamber events, committees and programs.
2025 honoree
Buster Nunemaker
Ambassador of the Year
The Chamber Ambassador who welcomed new members and showed up at ribbon cuttings all year.
2025 honoree
Susan Koester, Outer Banks Box
Director of the Year
A member of the Chamber Board of Directors recognized for their leadership and service. Selected by the Board, so no nomination is needed.
2025 honoree
Chris Marik, Ocean Atlantic Rentals
The 2025 honorees, celebrated at last year's Annual Meeting
It takes about five minutes. Share the nominee's name, their business or organization, and a few sentences on why they deserve it.
Sponsorships
Put your name in front of the whole business community
Right for banks and lenders, professional services, and anyone who sells to business owners and local government. Every sponsor is included in the Chamber's emails, website and social posts for the event.
Thank you to last year's award sponsors: Standard Insurance, the Small Business Center at COA, High Seas Pools & Spas, Kellogg Supply and The Cottage Shop, Ocean Sands K-9 Resort, and Rainbow Bridge Pet Cremation.
Prices are member rates. Not a member? You can still sponsor. Call Kelly for non-member rates.
To reserve a level, contact Kelly Allman at 252.441.8144 or [email protected].
Good to know
Quick answers before you register
Do I need to be a member?
No. Everyone is welcome. Members pay $35 and future members $45.
Is breakfast included?
Yes. Every ticket includes the full breakfast buffet at Captain George's.
Can I bring my team?
Yes. Buy a seat for each person, or reserve a Table of 8 for $600 and we'll save it for you.
When does registration close?
Monday, January 18 at 5 PM, so we can give Captain George's a final headcount.
What if my plans change?
Cancel up to 72 hours ahead, or send someone from your business in your place.
Can a non-member sponsor?
Yes. Call Kelly at 252.441.8144 for non-member rates.
Save your seat for January 21
Questions? Contact James Kahle at [email protected] or call the Chamber at 252.441.8144.
Cancellations are accepted up to 72 hours before the event. After that we've committed to meals and numbers, so tickets can't be refunded, but you're welcome to send someone in your place.


