ONEONTA — The Otsego County Chamber of Commerce has been named the winner of the Business Council of New York State’s Chamber of the Year award.

This award — to be presented at the Business Council’s 2013 annual meeting next Thursday, Sept. 26 — honors an “outstanding” chamber of commerce and its leadership team, according to a news release from the Business Council.

“Under the leadership of Executive Director Barbara Ann Heegan, the Otsego County Chamber of Commerce has thrived, showing that hard work, commitment to membership, and strong leadership can grow an organization,” Heather C. Briccetti, president and CEO of the Business Council, said in the release. “Through a collaborative approach the organization has developed notable new programs, established new partnerships and developed best practices that can be replicated around the state.”

The Business Council Chamber of the Year award is given annually to a chamber of commerce that displays a positive commitment to pro-business activities within their community and the state, the council said. Nominated chambers are judged on factors including: the quality programs and services provided, fiscal responsibility demonstrated, and commitment to membership and the community.

Headquartered in Oneonta, the Otsego County Chamber of Commerce has 520 members. In the past year, it has grown its membership by 28 percent, adding 115 new members, according to the news release.

Among the notable projects that made the Otsego County Chamber deserving of this year’s award, the organization: developed a strong college intern program with the SUNY Cooperative Ed Initiative, established a partnership with Broome Community College to provide courses to county residents, offered seminars and educational programs through guest speakers, and significantly expanded networking opportunities for members and the community, the Business Council said.

For more information on the Business Council Chamber of the Year award and the council’s 2013 annual meeting to be held at the Sagamore Resort on Lake George on Sept. 25-27, visit www.bcnys.org.