Corporate recognition isn’t just a formality, it’s a culture builder. Whether it’s the end of a record-breaking quarter, a long-time employee’s work anniversary, or a team that pulled off a major project, how you recognize your people matters. The right award does more than sit on a shelf. It tells a story, carries emotion, and reinforces values that matter to your company.
In a city like Chicago, where businesses range from lean startups to Fortune 500 giants, there’s no shortage of opportunities to celebrate hard work and dedication. And with that comes the need for awards that feel thoughtful, well-made, and worthy of the achievement. From elegant crystal awards to custom-engraved plaques, the Windy City is home to award makers that can help you do just that.
If you’re looking to recognize your team in a meaningful way, this guide covers the best corporate award providers in Chicago, plus tips and ideas to make your next recognition event unforgettable.
What Makes a Great Corporate Award?
When you’re shopping for corporate awards, it’s easy to get caught up in the price or rush the order. But a truly memorable piece comes down to three key things: design, personalization, and purpose.
Design matters. Whether you’re handing out a sleek glass award or a bold crystal tower, the look and feel should reflect your company’s standard of excellence. A good award has visual presence. It should feel substantial, something the recipient is proud to display.
Personalization is what makes it stick. A name, a title, a quote, or even a one-liner that captures an inside joke or achievement, these touches make a difference. It shows thought, effort, and care.
And finally, purpose. An award should mean something. It should be tied to the kind of culture you want to build. If you’re honoring innovation, leadership, grit, or teamwork, say it clearly, and choose an award that reinforces that message.
Whether you’re recognizing someone in a warehouse, at a sales desk, or in the C-suite, your award should match the moment.
Corporate Award Providers in Chicago
Chicago is home to several outstanding award providers, each with its own strengths, specialties, and style. Whether you’re after luxury crystal, fast turnaround times, or something truly one-of-a-kind, there’s a local shop that can deliver.
1. Viking Awards (10405 W Cermak Rd, Westchester, IL 60154)
If you’re looking for a trusted name in awards with deep roots in Chicago, Viking Awards should be your first stop. For over five decades, Viking has served schools, businesses, sports leagues, and corporate teams throughout the city. Their strength lies in versatility. From sleek 3D crystal awards to classic wood plaques and custom medallions, they’ve built a catalog that covers all ends of the spectrum.
But what really sets Viking apart is their attention to detail. Their in-house engraving is crisp and precise. Their turnaround times are fast. And when you walk into their showroom or browse their site, you immediately feel like you’re working with people who understand the value behind the product, not just the product itself.
🌐Learn more or browse their catalog at viking-awards.com
2. Awards International (West Loop, Chicago)
If you’re after elegance and premium design, Awards International is a go-to for many of Chicago’s professional firms. Located in the heart of the West Loop, they specialize in high-end crystal and glass awards, often used for C-suite recognition, milestone celebrations, and industry events.
They offer full consultation services, meaning they can help you develop an entire award program from scratch, including concepts, messaging, and even the display packaging. Their awards aren’t cheap, but they’re not supposed to be. This is the provider you turn to when you want to make a lasting impression.
3. Chicago Trophy (Multiple Locations)
Chicago Trophy is one of the most recognized names in the city when it comes to volume-friendly, reliable corporate awards. They offer bulk pricing, employee award programs, and a wide variety of customization options.
If your company is looking to recognize dozens, or even hundreds, of employees, Chicago Trophy makes the process smooth and cost-effective. They also offer laser engraving, full-color inserts, and perpetual plaques for ongoing award series like “Employee of the Month” or “Sales Leader of the Quarter.”
4. Personalization House (Naperville, IL – Serves Chicagoland)
This boutique shop offers a more handcrafted approach to recognition. While they serve a wide range of customers, Personalization House is especially popular among smaller teams, creative agencies, and leadership groups looking for something with heart.
They excel at customized gifts, personalized glass, and even combining materials (like metal and crystal) to create hybrid award designs. If you’re celebrating something intimate, like a founder’s retirement or a key promotion, this is the kind of place that will help you get the tone just right.
5. Crown Trophy (Villa Park, IL – Ships to Chicago)
Crown Trophy might not be based directly in the city, but they’re close enough and efficient enough to earn a spot on this list. Located in Villa Park, this national chain offers online ordering with local pick-up or fast delivery.
They’re a strong fit for companies with multi-office locations or franchises who want consistency across award types. Think “Franchisee of the Year” or “Top Regional Manager.” Crown Trophy offers easy online templates and award kits for recurring events and presentations.
Creative Corporate Award Categories to Inspire Your Next Ceremony
Let’s face it, “Employee of the Month” is solid, but after a while, it gets stale. Great companies don’t just hand out awards for the usual stuff. They recognize what actually makes their team special.
Here are some creative award category ideas to help you celebrate your people in a way that feels fun, intentional, and memorable.
1. The Culture Champion Award
For the person who lives and breathes your company values. They show up, lift others, and embody what your workplace is about, even when no one’s watching.
2. The Backbone Award
Every team has one, the person who keeps the operation running smoothly. They’re not always in the spotlight, but everything would fall apart without them.
3. The Innovator’s Edge
Awarded to someone who brought a new idea, process, or tool into the mix that changed how your team works. It’s about thinking ahead, solving problems, and making things better.
4. Rookie of the Year
Perfect for new hires who hit the ground running. This one builds confidence and reminds your newest talent that they’re already making an impact.
5. Most Improved
Not just for school. Whether it’s growth in sales, communication, leadership, or even attitude, this award recognizes change and effort.
6. The Calm in the Chaos
Some people stay cool no matter what’s going on. This award is for the person who keeps the team grounded when everything’s on fire.
7. Customer Hero
Given to the employee who consistently goes above and beyond for your customers or clients. This one’s especially great for front-facing roles.
8. Remote Rock Star
More relevant than ever, perfect for fully remote or hybrid companies. It goes to the person who manages to stay connected, deliver results, and lift others up, all from afar.
9. Best Team Player
For the person who never says “that’s not my job.” They collaborate, show up, and support others, even when it’s inconvenient.
10. The Glue Award
For the one who keeps morale high, schedules organized, and people laughing. They’re often the heart of the team, and worth recognizing.
These categories aren’t just about handing out more plaques. They’re a chance to reinforce what your company values. They can shape culture, boost morale, and make people feel seen.
How to Choose the Right Award for Your Team or Event
Choosing the perfect corporate award isn’t just about picking something that looks nice, it’s about selecting something that feels meaningful. Here’s what to consider when you’re narrowing down your options:
Consider the Occasion
Is this award for a one-time achievement or part of an annual tradition? A retirement celebration might call for something more elegant and permanent, like a 3D crystal tower. A quarterly sales award could be something sleek and modern that’s easy to replicate at scale.
Match the Award to the Personality
A creative, out-of-the-box team member might appreciate something unique and visually striking, like a geometric glass sculpture. A dependable, behind-the-scenes employee might prefer something classic, like a polished wood plaque or a traditional column trophy. Consider who’s receiving it, not just what looks good.
Think About Displayability
Where will this award end up? If it’s going to sit on an executive desk, a heavy, stable crystal piece may be ideal. If it’s being hung in a company hallway, a wall-mounted plaque or certificate might be more appropriate. Practicality matters.
Customize With Meaning
Don’t just add a name and a date. Include a short message or quote, the reason for the recognition, or even the values it represents. A little personalization goes a long way in making the award feel earned and appreciated.
Balance Budget With Impact
You don’t need to break the bank for awards to feel impactful. There are plenty of affordable options that still look professional and meaningful. For larger events or programs, you can reserve premium pieces for top-tier awards and use cost-effective options for participation or honorable mentions.
Work With a Trusted Provider
Local businesses like Viking Awards and others mentioned earlier offer not only product variety but also a level of service and collaboration that online-only providers can’t always match. When in doubt, talk to someone who does this every day, they’ll help guide you toward the right fit.
Recognize People the Right Way
At the end of the day, corporate awards aren’t about the object, they’re about the message: “We see you. We appreciate you. You matter here.”
In a city like Chicago, where industries thrive, teams hustle, and excellence is everywhere, it’s especially important to pause and celebrate wins, big and small. Recognition programs done well can energize a team, reinforce company culture, and boost morale across the board.
Whether you’re hosting a black-tie gala downtown or a quick team huddle in the breakroom, the right award can turn a good moment into a lasting memory.
So if you’re planning your next corporate event or looking to refresh your recognition efforts, start with a provider you trust and a purpose that matters. And when in doubt, go with Viking Awards.
