It’s time again to rally behind local business
final nomination DEADLINE: wednesday, june 23, 2021 AT 4:30PM
Early Bird: Submit by Wednesday, June 9 at 4:30pm and you could win a $100 gift card for the Chamber member business of your choice!
For eligibility requirements, please see About the Awards. See our Frequently Asked Questions page for further information.
Nominate Your Favourite Business (or businesses!) using our Express Nomination form!
To nominate your own business, see “Nominate Your Business” below.
Nominate An Individual
Business Citizen of the Year
Sponsored by Nexicom
In recognition of a member of the community who meets the following criteria:
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Must be a resident of the Greater Peterborough Community;
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Has played a significant role in the Business Community;
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Has involvement in the broader community.
As the Chamber of Commerce is a Business-to-Business organization, the role that a nominee for the Business Citizen of the Year Award has had in the Business Community is extremely important. The Chamber of Commerce also recognizes the importance of volunteerism within the broader community. Please note: If you have nominated someone in this category in the past and they were not selected, feel free to nominate them again this year.
Nominators are encouraged to provide as much detail as possible in each section, and to include supporting documentation (e.g., Letters of Support, newspaper articles, etc.).
Recent recipients:
Ian Scates, Central Smith (2020)
Carmela Valles of Carmela Valles Immigration Consulting (2019)
Morris Cox of Brant Office Supply Ltd. (2018)
Peter Blodgett of Darling Insurance & Realty Ltd. (2017)
Stephen Kylie, Barrister, Solicitor, Notary Public (2016)
4-UNDER-40 profiles
In memory of Kathy Windrem
Sponsored by BDO Canada LLP
The ‘4-under-40’ Profile Program is designed to recognize individuals in our community who are under the age of 40 and who are making their mark in the Peterborough area. Their individual achievements may be recognized through business success, community involvement and/or contributions to the not-for-profit sector. We strive for balance, ensuring a diverse group of finalists to profile in terms of business niches, gender, and ethnic background. We look for compelling stories that highlight business and community leadership.
Nomination Rules & Protocol:
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Individuals can be nominated by their peers or through self nomination.
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Individuals (or their respective business) do not have to be a member of the Chamber of Commerce.
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Must be between the ages of 18 and 39 as of the current calendar year.
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Previous recipients are not eligible.
Each Nominee:
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Must be an employee or business owner in the City/County of Peterborough.
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Must be doing something extraordinary to significantly improve their business or non-profit organization, or something that directly benefits the local or global community.
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Must have demonstrated leadership and integrity in business and/or community.
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Must have been recognized by his or her peers/industry for outstanding contributions to business and/or community.
Letters of Support are strongly encouraged and should focus on criteria 1-4.
Recent recipients:
2020 Profiles: Kemi Akapo, Waleed Dabbah, Shawn Morey, Rosalea Terry
2019 Profiles: Dr. Vipin Grover, Brooke Hammer, Grace Reynolds, Nicole Truman
2018 Profiles: Reem Ali, Mike D’Alessandro, Nicole Gagliardi, Andressa Lacerda
2017 Profiles: Jason Chessar, Yvonne Lai, Craig Mortlock, Catia Skinner
2016 Profiles: Mike Doherty, Adam Noble, Brianna Salmon, Michael VanDerHerberg
BUSINESSWOMAN OF THE YEAR (ENTREPRENEUR)
Sponsored by Women’s Business Network of Peterborough
Recognizing a businesswoman in the community showing excellence in professional and personal leadership, as well as significant achievement.
The nominee must:
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own or co-own an established business; and
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have an active role in running the business.
Recent recipients:
Angela Jones, Lakeshore Designs (2020)
Monika Carmichael, Trent Valley Honda (2019)
Gwyneth James, Cody & James CPAs Professional Corporation (2016)
Amy Simpson, MicroAge (2015)
BUSINESSWOMAN OF THE YEAR (ORGANIZATION)
Sponsored by Women’s Business Network of Peterborough
Recognizing a businesswoman in the community showing excellence in professional and personal leadership, as well as significant achievement.
The nominee must:
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be an employee, working in a business or non-profit organization, holding a formal or informal leadership role; and
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have an impact on the organization in some way.
Recent recipients:
Sandra Dueck, Greater Peterborough Chamber of Commerce (2020)
Kerri Davies, Canadian Mental Health Association HKPR (2014)
Sheridan Graham, The County of Peterborough (2011)
new canadian ENTREPRENEUR OF THE YEAR
Sponsored by Fleming College
Profiling the achievements of an immigrant entrepreneur who shows excellence in business leadership, demonstrates positive customer service and reliability, and has some involvement in the broader community. We look for a compelling story that embodies the entrepreneurial spirit.
The Nominee:
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Must be a resident of the Greater Peterborough Community; and
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Must have been born or naturalized outside of Canada, having come to Canada within the last 15 years.
Recent recipients:
Gill & Nick Exton of Canoe & Paddle, Stuff, Stuff’d Bakery & Ice Cream (2020)
Mohammad Alftih & Randa Kharboutly of (OMG) Oasis Mediterranean Grill (2019)
Martin Carbajal of La Mesita Restaurante (2018)
Andressa Lacerda of Noblegen (2017)
Nigina Azimova & Khaja Humayon Sidiqi of Ariyana Middle Eastern Food (2016)
Nominate Your Business
COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT OR RENOVATION
Sponsored by City of Peterborough
In recognition of either the business/property owner or the contractor for a project showing excellence in overall visual impact or distinctiveness, innovative design and/or commitment to heritage, a commitment to the environment and community involvement. The project should serve as a showcase for the skilled trades, as well as a model to the community and has been completed within the past 2 years (June 23, 2019 – June 23, 2021). Please note: Before & after pictures are highly recommended (via email or in person).
Recent recipients:
Hospice Peterborough (2020)
Weichel & Associates (2019)
Publican House Brewery (2018)
Lett Architects (2017)
Ashburnham Realty - 242 Hunter Street (2016)
CUSTOMER FIRST
Sponsored by TD Bank Group
In recognition of a business or organization that demonstrates consistent top-quality customer service, ongoing employee training and is able to provide examples of being friendly, honest, innovative, approachable and, as well, their community involvement. Customer testimonials are strongly encouraged (maximum 5).
Recent recipients:
Gauvreau & Associates CPA (2020)
Showplace Performance Centre (2019)
Lang Pioneer Village Museum (2018)
Avant-Garden Shop (2017)
MicroAge Peterborough (2016)
EMPLOYER OF THE YEAR
Sponsored by LLF Lawyers LLP
In recognition of a business or organization that exemplifies excellence in its employee focus, which could include: job creation, diversity of hiring, training & support programs, morale initiatives, recognition & reward programs, workplace wellness, and a commitment to professional and personal development, as well as community involvement.
Recent recipients:
Lett Architects Inc. (2020)
D.M. Wills Associates Limited (2019)
Cambium (2018)
Kawartha Lakes Construction (2017)
GM Financial (2016)
ENTREPRENEURIAL SPIRIT
Sponsored by Gauvreau CPA
In recognition of a small business or organization, with fewer than 50 employees, showing excellence in any of the following: new or innovative product or service, quality of merchandise/ customer service, job creation, growth potential, market served and community involvement.
Recent recipients:
Floortrends (2020)
Inclusive Advisory (2019)
We-Fix-U Physiotherapy and Foot Health Centres (2018)
Havelock Metal Co. (2017)
Publican House Brewery (2016)
FARM FAMILY OF THE YEAR
Sponsored by Peterborough County Federation of Agriculture
In recognition of a farm family demonstrating good farming practices, an interest in the farming community, and interest and participation by the family in its operation.
Recent recipients:
Chris and Angela Klompmaker & Family (2020)
Sam and Jane McLean & Family (2019)
Ed and Eva Haass & Family (2018)
Dave and Kathy Stockdale & Family (2017)
Jim and Barb Buck & Family (2016)
green initiatives
Sponsored by County of Peterborough
In recognition of a business or organization that has taken steps to reduce its environmental impact and has community involvement.
Recent recipients:
Three Sisters Natural Landscapes (2020)
Simply Trees (2019)
Entomo Farms (2018)
Lansdowne Place (2017)
GreenUP (2016)
HEALTH & WELLNESS
Sponsored by Peterborough Regional Health Centre
In recognition of a business or organization that promotes wellness and vitality in our community by providing ongoing internal training and educating and inspiring individuals and the community at large, to achieve optimal health, and has community involvement.
Recent recipients:
Pilates on Demand (2020)
Kawartha Heights Retirement Living (2019)
Salti Yoga (2018)
The Mane Intent Inc. (2017)
Hot Yoga Peterborough Wellness Institute (2016)
HOSPITALITY
Sponsored by Kawartha Credit Union
In recognition of an accommodation and/or food business or organization demonstrating commitment to excellence in hospitality/customer service, staff knowledge, quality and consistency of product, signage, marketing & promotion, accessibility, and community involvement.
Recent recipients:
La Mesita Restaurante & Catering (2020)
Publican House Brewery (2019)
The Imperial Tandoor (2018)
Publican House Brewery (2017)
The Brickhouse Craft Burger (2016)
INNOVATION / RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT
Sponsored by Cleantech Commons & Innovation Cluster
In recognition of a business or organization that demonstrates innovations in products, processes and/or practices. Please note: Previous recipients must demonstrate substantial progress.
Recent recipients:
Persian Empire Distillery / CDC Inc (2020)
Charlotte Products Ltd. (2019)
Entomo Farms (2018)
Chimp Treats (2017)
Swish Maintenance Limited (2016)
LOCAL FOCUS
Sponsored by Trent University
In recognition of a business or organization with significant local focus in their enterprise, be it through utilizing local products or services, and/or selling or showcasing local products as well as their community involvement.
Recent recipients:
Peterborough Housing (2020)
Merrett Home Hardware Building Centre (2019)
Tiny Greens Plant Cafe (2018)
Lang Pioneer Village Museum (2017)
The Land Canadian Adventures (2016)
MARKETING & PROMOTION
Sponsored by The Peterborough Examiner
In recognition of a business or organization, their in-house designer, or a Marketing, Design or Communications Company who has created a multi-media, marketing, or design campaign, that has been outstanding, innovative and noticeable, raising awareness and increasing business for its client, or itself, within the last year, and has community involvement. Please note: Sample images of your work are highly recommended, if applicable (via email or in person).
Recent recipients:
The Loomex Group / The City of Peterborough (2020)
123DigitalPower, by Sofie Andreou (2019)
inspirtainment inc. (2018)
Oldies 96.7 Radio/My Broadcasting Corp. (2017)
Mega Experience (2016)
MICRO BUSINESS - FEWER THAN 5 EMPLOYEES
Sponsored by Community Futures Peterborough
In recognition of a small business or organization that has demonstrated significant business achievement, growth, and/or other significant business milestones in the past year, as well as community involvement.
Recent recipients:
Birchview Design (2020)
Renew Medi Spa Peterborough (2019)
Sullivan Law Ptbo (2018)
Celtic Connection (2017)
NOT-FOR-PROFIT
Sponsored by D.W. Wills Associates Ltd.
In recognition of a Not-for-Profit organization that exemplifies excellence and/or growth in programs and services, volunteer management (recruitment, training, recognition, etc), fundraising initiatives, transparency/disclosure, and marketing & promotion; and is innovative.
Recent recipients:
YES Shelter for Youth and Families (2020)
Alternatives Community Program Services (Peterborough) Inc. (2019)
Hospice Peterborough (2018)
New Canadians Centre Peterborough (2017)
Trent University (2016)
professional services
Sponsored by Swish Maintenance Limited
In recognition of a business or organization showing excellence in the provision of services that are regulated by a provincial regulatory body, such as legal, medical, financial, real estate, etc. Judges’ considerations include: business growth, market development, customer service, professionalism and integrity, marketing and promotion, and community involvement.
Recent Recipients:
Cambium Inc. (2020)
D.M. Wills Associates Limited (2019)
Gauvreau & Associates Chartered Professional Accountants (2018)
RETAIl
Sponsored by RBC Royal Bank
In recognition of a business or organization showing commitment to innovation and excellence in retail, including: staff knowledge, consideration of merchandising, store design and/or online presence, customer service, marketing & promotion and community involvement.
Recent recipients:
Needles in the Hay (2020)
Tiny Greens Plant Cafe (2019)
Leon’s Furniture (2018)
Lakefield Foodland (2017)
Long & McQuade (2016)
SKILLED TRADES
Sponsored by Charlotte Products Ltd.
In recognition of a business or organization showing excellence, which could include: trade skills development, quality, craftsmanship, outstanding service, excellence in innovation in product or service, sustainable financial performance or market/product development and community involvement.
Recent recipients:
Keene Truck Inc. (2020)
Thompson Machine and Tool (2019)
Kawartha Lakes Construction (2018)
R & M Smith Contracting Ltd. (2017)
Mortlock Construction Inc. (2016)
TOURISM
Sponsored by OLG
Recognizing a business or organization, with a tourism focus, showing excellence in the provision of virtual programming. Judges’ considerations include: innovation, effective marketing/promotion, and outstanding results (financial and/or engagement).
Recent recipients:
Peterborough Air Show: The Loomex Group / The City of Peterborough
The Friends of Hope Mill (2019)
Kawartha Craft Beer Festival (2018)
4th Line Theatre (2017)
Peterborough & The Kawarthas Tourism (2016)
business student leadership prizes
Sponsored by Peterborough & the Kawarthas Economic Development
This award was established on behalf of the Greater Peterborough Chamber of Commerce as a way to recognize exceptional business leadership potential in a post-secondary student. Part of the Chamber mandate is to encourage young people who are interested in the world of business. The Peterborough Business Excellence Awards is the perfect venue to award this prize, which will recognize student excellence and foster responsible leadership and business prosperity for our future.
An annual $1,000 prize, and a GPCC one-year Student Associate Membership, will be awarded to both Fleming College and Trent University students based on the following criteria:
The Recipient Will Have:
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completed at least 12 credits in the School of Business at Trent University or be in their final year in the Business Program at Fleming College;
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demonstrated great potential to be a leader in business;
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displayed academic excellence, but not necessarily held the top mark;
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exhibited initiative beyond the boundaries of academics.
Open to Canadian or International students.
This criteria was established by both the Business Administration Department and Development Office at Trent University, and the Associate Registrar at Fleming College.
Recipients are selected by Fleming College and Trent University.
Recent recipients:
Ron LaChapelle, Shayan Faisal (2020)
Joao Borges, Rhode Thomas (2019)
Naman Bhardwaj, Emily Scott (2018)
Samantha Rivers, Patricia Hoyt (2017)
Jungeon Kim, David Shadlock (2016)
Evening Sponsors
