Nomination period
August 23, 2024 – September 20, 2024
You may nominate more than one business or person, you may nominate yourself. Your nominations may be published. An independent panel of local judges will determine winners. Winners will be announced during the Business Excellence Awards Night.
The following are the award categories for nomination, you are encouraged to consider submitting a nomination in one or more categories:
New Business: The Rising Star Award
- Recognizing an outstanding NEW business that has been in operation within the past year but not more than 2 years.
- Has demonstrated outstanding success, innovation, and entrepreneurialism.
Large Business of the Year Award (6+ Employees)
- A home-based or owner/ operator storefront
- In the past year, has demonstrated outstanding overall business success
- Has made achievements in the areas of business growth, employee development and community involvement.
- This award is presented to a business that has been in operation for two years or more with 6+ employees.
Small Business of the Year Award (1-5 Employees)
- A home-based or owner/ operator storefront
- In the past year, has demonstrated outstanding overall business success and made achievements in the areas of business growth, employee development and community involvement.
- This award is presented to a business that has been in operation for two years or more with less than 5 employees.
Hospitality & Tourism Award
- The business or organization will have proven customer service and been in operation for a minimum of 2 years.
Best in Adventure and Outdoor Activities Award
- This award celebrates businesses and individuals in Clearwater and Wells Gray region who create exceptional adventure and outdoor experiences, showcasing the best our area has to offer.
- Nominees excel in providing unique and memorable experiences, significantly contributing to our vibrant tourism sector.
Trades & Service Excellence Award
- This award celebrates a staff member or entrepreneur in a business or organization in Clearwater and Wells Gray
- That, in the past year, has demonstrated dedication to their profession, trade or craft and proven themselves to be an asset to the business or community.
- This talented person will have provided support and/ or mentorship and continually demonstrates or extends service that goes above and beyond expectations.
- Note: Employers are encouraged to submit nominations for this award
Retailer Excellence Award
- This award celebrates an outstanding retail business in Clearwater and Wells Gray
- That has consistently provided exceptional customer experiences and has achieved a reputation of going above and beyond for their customers and clients.
- This retailer has demonstrated customer-focused culture and exemplifies professionalism, honesty, and integrity. They have a reputation of having excellent product knowledge and demonstrate a commitment to providing quality products.
Entrepreneur & Innovation Award
- This award celebrates entrepreneur or business in Clearwater and Wells Gray
- That consistently provides exceptional customer experiences and has achieved a reputation of exceeding customer and client expectations.
- Has a customer-focused culture and exemplifies professionalism, honesty, integrity and has a proven track record that reflects the ability to stay ahead of trends and economic curves
Business Leaders Award
- This award celebrates a visionary business professional or entrepreneur who has achieved exceptional success in the ownership or management of a local business in Clearwater and Wells Gray.
- This award honours an individual who has shown strong leadership, strategic thinking, balanced workplace values, exemplary customer service, community engagement, and demonstrated perseverance when implementing effective strategies that continues to drive business growth and success.
Farmgate / Agriculture Awards
- This award celebrates farming or food processing business in Clearwater and Wells Gray
- That has distinguished itself and shown leadership by promoting the betterment of agriculture and food production in our community.
- This award will be presented to a business that has made progressive contributions to the advancement of agricultural production and/or food processing in the valley, be it plant or animal products.
- Strives toward strengthening food security in the Valley.
Organization of the Year Award
- This award celebrates an outstanding non-profit/charitable organization in Clearwater and Wells Gray
- That, in the past year, has demonstrated innovative or proactive leadership within the organization or non-profit sector and implemented initiatives that have resulted in significant and measurable outcomes benefiting the community.
- The organization or non-profit must have been in operation for a minimum of 2 years.
Women in Business Award
- This award celebrates the remarkable achievements of female entrepreneurs, executives, employees, and the organizations they run in Clearwater and Wells Gray,
- This award shines a spotlight on the dedication, hard work, and innovation of women in business.
Citizen of the Year Award
- This award celebrates an outstanding individual in Clearwater and Wells Gray
- That, has volunteered for the equivalent of 100 hours over the past 12 months in the past year.
- Their hard work and dedication to volunteering has enhanced the community and made a difference to citizens by way of their community service.
Note: Nominees do not have to be a member of the Chamber of Commerce; can be a home-based business and must do business within Clearwater and District. Businesses may nominate themselves.