Nominations for the Business Journal of North Idaho's Best of 2021 competition officially open today.

It's the best opportunity for community members to lift up local superheroes who go above and beyond for their clients, patrons and guests, whether it's creating an unforgettable outdoor dining experience, providing stellar chiropractic care and everything in between.

Press Advertising Director and Best Of coordinator Kari Packer said a superhero theme has been selected this year to recognize how tough things have been for business owners and employees throughout the community as they navigated, and continue to navigate, the COVID-19 pandemic.

"Whether you were essential and had your doors open all year or you had to quickly adjust to ensure you could keep your doors open, the business owners of North Idaho are superheroes and we want to celebrate you," Packer said.

She said Best Of staffers receive requests all year for new categories, so a few have been added this round: Automotive Parts Store; Automotive Performance Parts and Upgrades; and Orthopedic Care Provider.

Last year, the Best Not For Profit category was added. This year, area businesses are invited to "sponsor" a local nonprofit.

"The Press wants to create partnerships between area businesses and not-for-profits," Packer said. "Sponsors have the option to purchase a promotional package for one of the not-for-profits. The Press will then donate the cost of the package directly to the not-for-profit."

Packer said to keep the process quick and smooth, participants don't have to vote in every category to participate.

"You can get in and vote for the businesses that you are familiar with and want to support," she said.

Voting opened at 1 this morning and goes through 11:55 p.m. Jan. 21. Participants can visit the website, www.businessjournalnorthidaho.com, to nominate their favorite businesses and service providers. Participants will be able to nominate each candidate one time during the nomination period.

"Our team works behind the scenes to make sure nominations input by the community have accurate information to include nominating business in the appropriate category, as well as confirming that the business is located in North Idaho," Packer said.

After the nomination period is complete, the top five nominated businesses for each category will advance to the final ballot. Business finalists will be verified to ensure they provide the services that pertain to their category, that they have a business in North Idaho and that they have a business license.

The updated voting platform will be open for community voting from 1 a.m. on Feb 7 to Feb. 14.

Once the voting has concluded, winners will be notified.

Because of COVID-19, Best of North Idaho will not host a winners' party this year.

However, winners will earn promotional materials and bragging rights for winning over the hearts and hard-earned dollars of their North Idaho clientele.