Introducing the WHLA Development Excellence Awards

WHLA is excited to announce the Development Excellence Awards which will be presented for the first time in 2023. This new award category will recognize newly built or recently renovated lodging properties in Wisconsin. Any project completed within the last two years is eligible for this award. 

The award was proposed by the WHLA Awards Committee and approved by the WHLA Executive Committee, and will be presented during the Awards Dinner and Live Auction on November 7 at the Holiday Inn Stevens Point. In addition to special recognition at the awards ceremony, the winner will receive a plaque and photo opportunities at the Wisconsin Lodging Conference & Trade Show.

Development Excellence Award Nominations

Submit a nomination

• Property owners, operators and developers can self-nominate through an online nomination form. Projects may also be nominated by WHLA. 
• Qualifying properties will then be invited to complete an official award entry form by answering questions and submitting photos and/or videos.

Judging Criteria

• Pioneering: Was the project developed in a new market or pioneering destination?
• Cost: What was the total development cost?
• Size: What was the total number of rooms?
• Project Complexity: How many uses were developed (e.g. stand-alone vs. mixed-use)?
• Timeliness: Was the project completed on time?
• Project Budget: Was the project completed on budget?
• Economic Impact and Sustainability Initiatives: How many direct jobs were created? Were there any identifiable sustainability efforts/initiatives implemented?
• Innovative Design: Were there any creative/unique design elements implemented?
• Public Relations: What was the level of anticipation for its opening? Include links to articles and press related to the project.
• Endorsement from the Community: Reference letter from community leader regarding the project’s impact.

Submit a Nomination!

Register for the 2023 Wisconsin Lodging Conference & Trade Show 

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