Shining spotlight on ideas

INNOVATION | Search is on for innovative products, services

The sixth annual Chicago Innovation Award program opened for nominations today.

Founded by the Chicago Sun-Times and Kuczmarski & Associates, the Chicago Innovation Award program salutes innovation in products and services developed by Chicago-area businesses and institutions.

Since the Innovation Award made its debut five years ago, 50 companies ranging from high-tech to no-tech and from Fortune 500 members to mom-and-pop operations have been honored at a special presentation in October.

After meeting with the 2005 honorees in his office last year, Mayor Richard Daley said, "The awards highlight the importance of innovation in keeping our region one of the most diverse and progressive economies in the world."

This year's presentation will be held at the Goodman Theatre on Oct. 22, and the honorees will be profiled in a special section of the Sun-Times and featured on WBBM-AM Newsradio 780.

For more information on the award program, go to www.chicagoinnovationawards. com.