The Perth & District Chamber of Commerce Annual Small Business Awards Gala recognizes and celebrates companies who have distinguished themselves by fostering growth, innovation, community service and excellence in their sectors. The winners are chosen by the nominations committee who evaluate nominations received from the community. This year the Chamber has FIVE (5) Award Categories.
Nominations
Nominations are now open to the Chamber Members! Don’t miss the chance to have your say in who deserves to be recognized. Nominate your favourite business leaders and teams for one of the five prestigious awards.
Nomination Period:
September 9th – September 29th
Awards Categories
Business of the Year:
Recognizing the most outstanding business that has demonstrated exceptional growth and success.
Entrepreneur of the Year:
Celebrating an individual who has shown remarkable innovation and leadership in their entrepreneurial journey.
Employee/Team of the Year:
Honouring a team or employee who has made significant contributions to their organization and community.
Community Involvement Award:
Acknowledging an organization or individual that has made a substantial impact through community engagement and support.
The People’s Choice Award:
A special award chosen by public vote, celebrating a business or individual that has garnered widespread community support.
Criteria
Business of the Year Award
Perth & District boasts a number of area businesses and industries with some of them enjoying global recognition and respect for excellence in both products and services. Typically employing 20 people or more, these firms play a leading role in solidly positioning themselves in today’s marketplace. These firms provide employment, stability and enhanced quality of life for many Perth & District area residents. This category is described, in general terms, as a firm that has been in operation for a minimum of three years. Criteria include but are not limited to:
Checklist:
- Must be a for-profit business
- Significant increase in revenue
- Addition of new technology
- Progressive human resource policies
- New or expanded facilities
- Environmental commitment
- Increased workforce
- Demonstrated training culture
- Innovative marketing strategy or new market development
- Community involvement
2023 Winner: Eastonmade Manufacturing
Entrepreneur of the Year Award
Without imagination and a willingness to take risks, many innovative products and services in today’s marketplace would not exist. The entrepreneur takes a vision and turns it into a profitable reality. This award recognizes someone from the community who exemplifies these qualities. General criteria centre on an enterprise no more than three years old or one that has undergone a significant shift in focus within that period of time. Specific criteria include but are not limited to:
Checklist:
- Must be a for-profit business
- Demonstrated leadership, daring and creativity
- Steady revenue growth
- An innovative idea
- Demonstrated personal and financial commitment
- Unique marketing concept
- Community involvement
2023 Winner: The Curly Redhead
Employee/Team of the Year Award
The award recognizes an individual or team nominated by their peers who clearly demonstrates loyalty, exceptional performance and an overall contribution to their organization – the individual and/or team has provided a significant impact to their company through high-quality work, outstanding performance and is a well-respected role model to others.
Checklist:
- The award is open to both individuals and groups
- Exceptional service to others
- Personal or, company commitment with no expectation of reward
- Enhancing the business image in the community
- Positive public relations
- Assisting others to succeed
2023 Winner: Spring Children
The People’s Choice Award
This award will be presented to a business that is seen as a leader in the community, is highly engaged and active. This business (and their staff) is engaged in volunteering, community events, and understands the concept of giving back to the community. This business delivers a high level of customer service, is an innovator in their field and has demonstrated overall excellence in business. Voting will be open to the public in October.
Checklist:
- Exceptional Customer Service
- Community Engagement
- Positive Customer Feedback:
- Innovative Products or Services
- Commitment to Quality
- Accessibility and Convenience
- Engagement with Customer Feedback
2023 Winner: Fashion Envy
Community Involvement Award
The Community Involvement Award celebrates a business, organization, or individual that has demonstrated an outstanding commitment to making a positive impact in our community. This award honours those who go above and beyond in their efforts to support and uplift local initiatives, charities, and causes. Recipients of this award are recognized for their active participation in community-driven projects, their dedication to fostering meaningful relationships with local organizations, and their significant contributions towards improving the quality of life in our area.
Checklist:
- Active Participation in Community Initiatives
- Support for Local Causes
- Positive Community Impact
- Collaboration with Other Organizations
- Sustainable and Long-Term Engagement
- Visibility and Advocacy
This is a new award this year!
Join Us!
The Small Business Awards Gala has become the premier business event of the year; recognizing the achievements and contributions of business leaders in the Perth & District area. Members are invited to show your support and build your brand by sponsoring this wonderful evening of celebration.
