2026 Business Excellence Awards – Nominations Now Open

Awarded to the business over 21 employees that has demonstrated outstanding performance, innovation, effective leadership, quality service, and community/charitable involvement over the years but particularly in the past year. This business has achieved tangible performance improvements in efficiency, productivity, health & wellness, environmental sustainability, competitiveness and market share with their products or services, they have also developed excellent employee-employer relationships and customer service.

Awarded to the business with 20 employees or less that has demonstrated outstanding performance, innovation, effective leadership, quality service, and community/charitable involvement over the years but particularly in the past year. This business has achieved tangible performance improvements in efficiency, productivity, health & wellness, environmental sustainability, competitiveness and market share with their products or services, they have also developed excellent employee-employer relationships and customer service.

Awarded to a business that has been in operation for ten years or longer and has demonstrated long-term leadership, innovation, and commitment to the community.

Awarded to a business that has commenced operations between 1 and 5 years from the time of nomination and that it cannot be the expansion, name change or new location of an existing firm and has experienced success in company growth, sales and service, profitability, and the creation of employment.

Awarded to a business 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.

Awarded to a professional that exemplifies professionalism and integrity. This category includes, but is not limited to, law, accounting, financial, insurance, real estate, CEOS, consultants and other professional service providers. Recognized for outstanding achievements in some or all the following: Company Growth, Customer Service, Market Development, Sales & Marketing, Community Services.

Awarded to a business that exemplifies professionalism and integrity. This category includes dental, vision, medical and paramedical services (eg. chiropractic, naturopathic, physio, massage therapy, etc.) professional service providers. Recognized for outstanding achievements in some or all the following: Company Growth, Customer Service, Market Development, Sales & Marketing, Community Services.

The nominee will be a young professional/entrepreneur who is ‘on the rise'. Nominees will be 30 years of age and under at the time of nomination and will demonstrate a proven commitment to our community through outstanding scholarship, achievements, and community involvement. The recipient must demonstrate innovative thinking, exemplary leadership qualities, commitment to making a difference, ability to engage and inspire others, and must act as a positive role model to his/her peers and colleagues. In addition, the nominee will demonstrate significant growth potential as a future leader in the local community.

Awarded to an individual who has demonstrated an outstanding contribution to their local economy and the entrepreneurial spirit within the last 2 years. Additionally, they will demonstrate growth in the way of innovation, sales, employment creation, and acceptance in the market. Nominees must have at least 10 years of related experience and own at least one venture in greater Amherstburg.

Awarded to an accommodation and/or food business that has improved the appeal of the community by demonstrating commitment to excellence in hospitality/customer service, staff knowledge, quality and consistency of product, and community involvement, eg restaurants, cafes, hotels, B&Bs, Inns, street vendors, golf courses, wineries, breweries, tourist attractions, etc.

Awarded to the organization that has improved the interior or exterior of their business and/or property for the betterment of neighborhood safety and curb appeal. Eligible nominees made these updates in calendar 2024 or 2025.

Awarded to a business or organization that is recognized by their customers as providing excellent customer service. The winner of this award will be distinguished from other businesses by the fact that they go above and beyond to satisfy customers’ needs.

Awarded to a business that goes above and beyond to create an environment where everyone feels welcome. Whether it's creating more physically accessible spaces, embracing digital inclusivity, or developing a diverse workforce, this recognition applauds those who champion accessibility for all community members.

Awarded to the person, business or organization that has made an outstanding contribution to the social, cultural, or economic well-being of Amherstburg. This nominee has significantly contributed to the quality of life within the community and its citizens through its community service and leadership.

Awarded to youth 13-20 years old for their outstanding community engagement. This award was established to recognize and encourage exceptional activities such as, but not limited to, volunteerism, community-based learning or research, outreach, partnerships, and curricular engagement.