Awards: Categories & Criteria

Description

The Emerging Business Award will be presented to an entrepreneur who has been in business for 1-5 yrs. They have investigated the opportunities, weighed the risks, and developed a strong and successful business through effective business practices, community engagement, and entrepreneurial spirit. This business has demonstrated significant business achievement, sustainable financial performance, exhibited resilience to economic challenges and has gone above and beyond in their business and in the community.

Requirements

Business Eligibility

• Years in Operation: The business must have been operational for 1 to 5 years at the time of nomination.
• Business Registration: The business must be legally registered and in good standing.

Description

The Enterprise award is awarded to a manufacturing, agricultural, or distribution business or organization that has created, invented, or developed an innovative product or process that has resulted in a significant and measurable increase in any of the following areas: Product or process development, Employee Culture, Job Creation, Increase in sales growth, Community involvement. The recipient business executes best practices in all areas of their operation to ensure maximization of its capabilities and capacity. e.g. manufacturer, logistics company, food processor, agriculture implement dealer, warehousing etc.

Requirements

• The nominee must operate in one of the following sectors:
  • Manufacturing
  • Agriculture
  • Distribution
  • Logistics
  • Food Processing
  • Agricultural Implement Dealership
  • Warehousing
• The business must be legally registered and in good standing. 
• Previous Winners: Cannot have won a Business Excellence Award in the past 5 years.

Description

The Hospitality Award will be presented to an accommodation, food service, or tourism operation that has enhanced the allure of the community. This recognition is for those demonstrating a commitment to excellence in hospitality/customer service, staff knowledge, quality and consistency of product, and community involvement. The recipient business not only excels in their service but also plays a pivotal role in enriching the overall hospitality experience in the community. e.g. restaurants, cafes, hotels, B&Bs, Inns, street vendors, etc.

Requirements

• Must have been in business for at least one year.
• Must be in good standing with relevant regulatory bodies.
• Must operate within the accommodation, food service, or tourism sector.
• Previous Winners: Cannot have won a Business Excellence Award in the past 5 years.

Description

The Non-Profit/Charitable Award will be presented to the not-for-profit business that has significantly contributed to the overall quality of life within the community and its citizens through its programming and/or activities. e.g. community organizations, health & social service agencies, arts organizations, etc.

Requirements

• Must have registered non-profit or charitable status.
• Must have been in operation for at least one year.
• Previous Winners: Cannot have won a Business Excellence Award in the past 5 years.

Description

The Professional Award will be presented to a business that provides professional services to individuals or businesses. The recipient business executes best practices in all areas of their operation to ensure maximization of their capabilities, capacity, and excellence in the outstanding service they provide. The recipient business demonstrates a commitment to the ongoing education, skills development or professional accreditation of its employees. e.g. accounting & financial services, legal services, management consulting, architectural and engineering firms, IT and technology consulting, human resources and recruitment services etc.

Requirements

• Must have been in operation for at least one year.
• Must be a business in good standing with relevant regulatory authorities.
• Must not have won a Business Excellence Award within the past five years

Description

The Service Award will be presented to a service business that demonstrates a consistent adherence to the excellent business practices necessary to deliver the highest quality service and support to their clients/customers. e.g. salons and spas, industrial/residential cleaning services, massage therapists, auto repair shops, etc.

Requirements

• Must have been in operation for at least one year.
• Must be a registered business in good standing with relevant regulatory authorities.
• Must not have won a Business Excellence Award within the past five years.

Description

The Skilled Trades Award will be presented to a business that excels in providing skilled trade services to individuals or businesses. The recipient demonstrates a consistent adherence to excellent business practices and the high standards necessary to deliver quality service and support to their clients/customers. e.g. electrician, plumber, carpenter, HVAC technician, masonry worker

Requirements

• Must have been in operation for at least one year.
• Must be a registered business in good standing with relevant regulatory authorities.
• Must not have won a Business Excellence Award within the past five years.

Description

The Trailblazing Award will be presented to a business that is characterized by its innovative spirit and pioneering approach. This business has introduced a novel idea or technology, which may even have revolutionized its industry. It exhibits adaptability, responding agilely to market changes and customer needs. This business type often leads in sustainability and ethical practices, showing a commitment to social and environmental responsibility. Moreover, it's marked by strong leadership and a visionary mindset, inspiring others and driving progress in its field.

Requirements

• Must have been in operation for at least one year.
• Must be a registered business in good standing with relevant regulatory authorities.
• Must not have won a Business Excellence Award within the past five years.