Do you know of a business or businessperson that deserves recognition for their perseverance and dedication?
It's undoubtedly been another trying season for businesses — big, medium or small — in the region with the COVID-19 pandemic, but the Tri-Cities Chamber of Commerce (TCCC) is hoping to honour those who've persevered.
As of Tuesday (Sept. 21), the nomination period is open for the organization's 2021 Business Excellence Awards with a deadline of Oct. 8.
The award categories, along with nomination criteria and last year's winners, are listed as follows:
Business of the Year
- 2020 Winner(s)
- Butter Studios (one to 10 employees)
- Ballistic Arts Media Studios (11 to 30 employees)
- Rocky Point Ice Cream (30 or more employees)
- Criteria:
- Demonstrates an exceptional level of leadership and is regarded as a leader in its industry
- Demonstrates excellence in performance as evidenced by longevity, retention, financial growth, and reputation (please provide documentation if at all possible)
- Innovative based on the unique product and/or service it provides to the Tri-Cities, including exceptional customer service and satisfaction, and community services
- Demonstrates a positive social conscience by utilizing its resources to improve its community through events and initiatives, support of local not-for-profits, and reducing its environmental impact
- Has an overall positive impact on the Tri-Cities and makes the community a better place to live and work
Business Leader of the Year
- 2020 Winner(s)
- Angela Calla - The Angela Calla Mortgage Team
- Criteria:
- Has a proven track record of sustained success in his or her field
- Has had a significant impact on his or her business as evidenced by growth, innovation, and an established reputation as a business leader
- Demonstrates leadership by way of giving back through participation with local business initiatives and not-for-profit organizations
- Has a reputation of business excellence and expertise in his or her field
- Has an innovative spirit and has demonstrated an exceptional level of performance and dedication to leadership
Business Resiliency Award
- 2020 Winner(s)
- Legend Haul Supply Co.
- Novo Textiles
- Criteria:
- Responded to the pandemic with an exceptional level of leadership
- Reacted positively to business interruptions during the pandemic
- Found innovative ways to sustain and grow their business during the pandemic and beyond
- The business supported its staff throughout the shutdown and pandemic
- Demonstrates a positive social conscience by utilizing its resources to improve its community
Community Spirit Award
- 2020 Winner(s)
- Malik Malikzada - Jamila's Kitchen and Grill
- Criteria:
- Uses their resources to provide outstanding support to local initiatives and not-for-profit organizations
- Embodies leadership in community initiatives and has had a significant positive impact on the Tri-Cities community
- Demonstrates a passion for the community, making a positive difference and giving back
- Demonstrates an outstanding generous spirit and dedication to making the Tri-Cities a better place to live and work
Not-for-Profit of the Year
- 2020 Winner(s)
- Immigrant Link Centre Society
- Criteria:
- Has an established reputation within the community for providing exceptional programs and services
- Provides innovative programs and services that would not otherwise be available to those in the community
- Has a strong local impact
- Has exceptional reach within the Tri-Cities community
Young Professional of the Year
- 2020 Winner(s)
- Jessica Morrison - Squish Juicery
- Criteria:
- Embodies leadership and support in community initiatives and has had a significant positive impact on the Tri-Cities community and local businesses
- Has a proven track record of sustained success, leadership, and growth in his or her field
- Has had a significant impact on his or her business as evidenced by growth, innovation, and an established reputation as a business leader
- Has a reputation of business excellence and expertise in his or her field
- Showcases dedication to his or her company and bettering both the community and him or herself
Environmental Steward of the Year
- 2020 Winner(s)
- Fulfill Shoppe
- Criteria:
- Demonstrates an in-depth understanding and an outstanding, cooperative effort to environmental sustainability
- Is a role model for businesses in environmental sustainability best practices (recycling, composting, energy/water conservation, gardening, etc.)
- Demonstrates sustainable business practices in its own operations (aside from the product or service for sale)
- Helps to build environmental awareness and promote environmental stewardship within the Tri-Cities environmental landscape
- Has milestones and/or measurable accomplishments that demonstrate effective sustainable operations
The Tri-Cities Chamber is encouraging interested residents and entrepreneurs to submit thorough nominations so judges can better determine the finalists.
A celebration is currently planned for Jan. 29, 2022.
For more information, you're encouraged to visit the TCCC's website.
