The Oakville Chamber of Commerce (OCC) has announced nominations are now open for their 2025 Business Awards ceremony.
The awards, according to the Chamber, "appreciate the amazing feats achieved by local businesses, entrepreneurs, and community leaders that continue to contribute to Oakville’s economic growth and vitality."
The Chamber of Commerce aims to celebrate excellence in certain areas such as innovation, leadership, and community impact - while also "highlighting the diverse range of businesses that make Oakville an amazing place to live and work."
Usually presented in late spring each year, nominations are currently being accepted until February 10, 2025.
There will be nine awards to be won and the awards are as follows:
The Sagen Entrepreneur Award
This award celebrates the emerging and growing business leaders that show growth and innovation. Nominees for this award should show strong leadership,
contribute positively to Oakville's economy, and show probable for long-term success. The award recognizes the next generation of business entrepreneurs and inspirational figures in Oakville.
The CN Altruism Award
This award acknowledges a charity or not-for-profit organization leader that has substantially impacted Oakville through their charitable, social, or environmental causes. Nominees must show innovation and sustainability when speaking about the communities needs, with measurable outcomes that positively impact Oakville's quality of life. The award appreciates those who are dedicated to long-term positive change and addressing social challenges within the community.
The Cogeco Business Leader Award
This highly coveted award acknowledges an individual who has shown visionary leadership and made positive contributions to their organization and the broader Oakville business community. Nominees should demonstrate integrity, ethical leadership, and a commitment to innovation and excellence. The award is able to be won by leaders from businesses of all sizes who have helped shape Oakville's economic landscape and supported community development.
The Sustainability Award
This award honours businesses that have shown incredible leadership in environmental sustainability and energy efficiency. Nominees should show innovative practices that limit environmental impact, such as reducing waste, using renewable energy, or promoting eco-friendly causes. This award features businesses that are not only gaining financial success but also promoting positive environmental change in Oakville.
The O’Connor MacLeod Hanna Community Award
This award appreciates businesses that have made important contributions to the Oakville community through active engagement and social responsibility. Nominees must show leadership in corporate social responsibility, participating in programs that promote community development, volunteerism, and philanthropy. This award acknowledges businesses of all sizes that promote inclusivity and positive community relations, and continuously bringing forward the idea that social responsibility is key to constant success.
The Innovation Award
This award recognizes a business that has pioneered an innovative product, service, or process that has substantially boosted revenue, job creation, or market competitiveness. Nominees should exhibit measurable success in their innovation, with clear positive impacts to their business operations and the local economy. The award acknowledges businesses that make a clear difference in the community and push the boundaries of what's possible.
The KPMG Small Business Award
This award honours an incredible small business that shows excellence in all facets of its operations, from innovation and community impact to customer service and financial performance. The award acknowledges businesses with 1 to 50 employees that have made a huge contribution to the local economy, shown resilience in the face of adversity, and exhibited a commitment to responsible business practices.
The Henderson Partners Mid-size Business Award
This award appreciates a mid-sized business that has shown amazing performances and shown significant impact to the local economy. It recognizes businesses with 51 to 200 employees that showcase innovation, community involvement, and a commitment to substantial growth. This award honours organizations that have not only had operational success but have also positively impacted the community and their industry.
The RBC Royal Bank Large Business Award
This award honours a large business that has achieved excellence across several facets of its operations, setting a high standard in the community and their industry. It recognizes businesses that have over 200 employees who show leadership, innovation, and social responsibility, contributing to the economic vitality of the region. This award celebrates organizations that have shown sustained growth, a commitment to community engagement, and strategic vision.
If you are interested in nominating a business or your own business you can go to oakvillebusinessawards.com.