Upcoming NBBJ conferences and events


Diversity in Business Awards

SAVE THE DATE: Oct. 25, 2023

Where: Becoming Independent

The event will begin at 4 p.m.

Tickets will be on sale on soon!

Press Release: The North Bay Business Journal hosts its first Diversity in Business Awards

On Oct. 25, the North Bay Business Journal will be hosting its first Diversity in Business Awards at The Backdrop, a venue at Becoming Independent in Santa Rosa. The event will begin at 4 p.m. with a networking reception, followed by the awards presentation from 5 to 6:30 p.m.

The event is sponsored by the following: Presenting Partners Redwood Credit Union, Comcast, and Graton Resort and Casino; Gold Partners Exchange Bank and Dickenson, Peatman, and Fogarty Law; Silver Partner the YMCA; and Venue partner, the Backdrop at Becoming Independent.

About the Diversity in Business Awards: Historically, the North Bay Business Journal has annually hosted the Latino Awards and the Pride Awards. However, with the goal of celebrating inclusivity, the Diversity in Business Awards were created to honor and recognize all demographic backgrounds and areas of diversity.

With nominations beginning in late July, members of the business community all throughout the North Bay were given the chance to recognize and nominate either an individual business leader, or a company for this award.

The North Bay Business Journal designated the Individual Award for leaders in business who come from a diverse background and create a positive impact through their work. The winners of this award are honored for their contributions to business, as they empower those around them whether it be in the workplace or their community.

The Company Award signifies honor towards companies that show a commitment to opportunity for employees of any demographic. Companies who earned this award demonstrate an exemplary dedication to diversity, equity, and belonging.

Winners: As of Sept. 18th, winners of the Diversity in Business Awards were chosen and notified.

Individual Winners:

  • Alexis Frausto, Branch Manager, Exchange Bank
  • Carson Amiral, Financial Advisor, Northwestern Mutual
  • Chase Overholt, Director of Development, Positive Images
  • Christopher Kren-Mora, Executive Director, Sonoma County Pride/Out in the Vineyard
  • Cinthya Cisneros, CEO, La Cheve Bakery & Brews
  • Denee Locke, Professional Artist, Becoming Independent
  • Khalid Acheckzai, CEO and President, Poppy Bank
  • Mariana G. Martinez; CEO, Director, and Trustee; MGM PhD Consulting LLC, Mendocino College CAMP, SRJC
  • Mishel Kaufman, Chief Administrative and Risk Officer, Redwood Credit Union
  • Pedro Toledo, Chief Administrative Officer, Petaluma Health Center
  • Rosario Avila, Senior Benefits Advisor and Spanish Language Division lead, Arrow Benefits Group
  • Rupa Jack, Executive Director, Morgan Stanley
  • Ruth Wilson, Branch Manager, Tri Counties Bank
  • Sarah A. Lynn; Partner in Charge; BPM, LLP
  • Shany Cruz, VP of Acquisitions, Intervine

Company Winners:

  • Children’s Museum of Sonoma County, Santa Rosa
  • Graton Resort and Casino, Rohnert Park
  • Hernandez Realty Co., Guerneville
  • MCE, San Rafael
  • North Marin Community Services, Novato
  • Quattrocchi Kwok Architects, Santa Rosa
  • Sonoma County Library, Rohnert Park
  • Summit State Bank, Santa Rosa
  • Tekberry, Santa Rosa
  • The Spahr Center, Corte Madera
  • TLC Child and Family Services, Sebastopol
  • 4Cs Sonoma County, Santa Rosa

The North Bay Business Journal looks forward to celebrating its new award and recognizing these companies and leaders that are paving the way for diversity in business.


Excellence in Construction Awards

SAVE THE DATE: Nov. 15, 2023

Where: Sally Tomatoes

Join us in recognizing excellence in construction across the beautiful landscape of the North Bay!

The North Bay Business Journal's Top Projects Awards honors outstanding achievements in various construction projects throughout the region. From residential developments and commercial spaces to sustainable designs, innovative architectural design, and affordable housing projects. These awards celebrate the builders and visionaries who shape our communities.

Let's come together to applaud the variety of projects and innovation in construction that defines the North Bay.


Women in Wine Awards

We firmly believe that recognizing the efforts and achievements of women in the wine business is crucial for fostering diversity, innovation, and sustainability in the wine industry. Whether she works in PR and marketing, HR, sales and operations, winemaking, vineyard working, law, tasting room operations, etc., we'd like to hear more about her through this nomination.

Do you know a remarkable woman in the wine business who has been a driving force for change and progress? Perhaps she has pioneered sustainable wine production practices, promoted inclusivity and diversity within the industry, or spearheaded projects that support local communities and environmental conservation. Whether she works in viticulture, winemaking, distribution, marketing, or any other aspect of the wine business, we want to hear about her accomplishments.

We look forward to celebrating the excellent women in the North Bay wine business with you.

Stay tuned for more information!


HR Professionals Awards

NOMINATE TODAY!

Nominations are open HERE.

This special section in the North Bay Business Journal will be to celebrate excellence in the field of Human Resources (HR), we are thrilled to recognize the outstanding contributions and achievements of HR professionals who have gone above and beyond in shaping the future of the workforce. In the fast-paced and dynamic world of business, HR professionals play a pivotal role in driving organizational success. They are the guiding force behind fostering a culture of innovation, inclusivity, and employee engagement. Through their dedication and passion, they create workplaces that inspire collaboration, growth, and happiness among employees.

This NBBJ award aims to celebrate HR leaders and professionals for their leadership in business is a testament to the critical role HR plays in an organization's success. It not only recognizes individual accomplishments but also promotes the advancement of HR practices, which ultimately benefits the entire business community.

This special section is a tribute to their relentless efforts in driving positive change, enabling organizations to thrive, and fostering environments where employees can flourish.

This is an opportunity to honor those individuals who have demonstrated exceptional leadership, creativity, and impact in the HR domain.

Stay tuned for more information!


CEO Spotlight Reception

Thursday, Dec. 7, 2023

Stay tuned for more information!

Paradise Ridge Winery, Santa Rosa


Leadership Conference: Building your personal leadership brand

Where: Hyatt Regency Sonoma Wine Country

The North Bay Business Journal’s Leadership Conference will offer an overview of relevant topics to businesses today that will enable participants to make better business decisions and advance their career. Workshops will be led by industry professionals, tailored to explore core business concepts presented to provide knowledge that can be immediately applied to a business or organization.

Request for workshop presenters: APPLY HERE


Book of Lists 2024

January 2024

Stay tuned for more information!

Book sponsor: Exchange Bank


Questions? Email our events team HERE