Awards Criteria

Small Business Excellence (1 – 10 Employees)

• Presented to a business that exhibits true business excellence.
• This business has advanced in economic and/or financial growth through sales/earnings and financial management.
• They excel in customer service, are a leader in employment creation, diversity and inclusion, seek to continuously improve employee relations, are prominently involved in community affairs and demonstrate a commitment to quality in their operations.
• Must be in business for more than four years. (prior to January 1, 2022)

Medium Business Excellence (11 – 49 employees)

• Presented to a business that exhibits true business excellence.
• This business has advanced in economic and/or financial growth through sales/earnings and financial management.
• They excel in customer service, are a leader in employment creation, diversity and inclusion, seek to continuously improve employee relations, are prominently involved in community affairs and demonstrate a commitment to quality in their operations.
• Must be in business at least four years (prior to January 2022)

Large Business Excellence (50+ employees)

• Presented to a business that exhibits true business excellence.
• This business has advanced in economic and/or financial growth through sales/earnings and financial management.
• They excel in customer service, are a leader in employment creation, diversity and inclusion, seek to continuously improve employee relations, are prominently involved in community affairs and demonstrate a commitment to quality in their operations.
• Must be in business at least four years (prior to January 2022)

Business Person of the Year

• Presented to an individual in an ownership or management position who exemplifies visionary business management, proactive employee and customer relations, a commitment to strengthening diversity and inclusion, and a dedication to community service.

Looking Good

• Presented to a business or organization that has completed renovations or restored a property or building that already exists, incorporated green building materials/processes during a build or renovation and the improvements of this property have shown a positive impact on its surrounding community.
• Project to have been completed within the last 2 years. (January 2024-December 2025)

Game Changer

• The Game Changer is presented to an individual, business, organization, or partnership that introduces new offerings, breakthrough solutions or a revolutionary approach that enhances our lives and challenges the status quo.
• Through their collaborative efforts, they inspire Thunder Bay leaders and businesses to think differently about how they serve their clients, employees, and community.
• This can be a single nomination or joint nomination (submitted only once naming all partners).

New Business Excellence

• Presented to a new locally owned business that has demonstrated innovation, vision, employment creation and business growth prospects.
• Must be in operation for at least one year but within four years (January 2022 – December 2024).

Young Entrepreneur

• Presented to the owner of a company that has been in business for at least 2 years and is 39 years of age or younger (as of December 31, 2025).
• This person exemplifies innovative business skills, proactive employee and customer relations, and community leadership.

Not for Profit

• This award is presented to the not for profit organization that exemplifies excellence and innovation in their programs, projects, and partnerships.
• Their commitment to growth and expanded programs, as well as service, community involvement, sustainable practices and/or job creation/development, demonstrates a dedicated focus on achieving their vision and mandate.

Make a nomination now.

Equity, Diversity & Inclusion

• This award celebrates individuals, organizations or partnerships that have shown exceptional dedication to creating a diverse, equitable, and inclusive environment, especially for those who historically have been under-represented (women, visible/racialized minorities, Indigenous peoples, persons with disabilities, and 2SLGBTQI+).
• It honours those who have successfully implemented innovative practices and initiatives that break down barriers, promote fairness, and ensure that everyone feels welcomed and valued.
• Award recipients are recognized for their leadership in advocating for social justice, driving meaningful change, and/or inspiring others to embrace diversity, equity, and inclusion in their professional and community endeavors.

Customer Service

• Presented to a business or organization that is committed to high standards of customer service.
• This business or organization delivers exceptional service in their dealings with customers and educates and encourages their staff to improve and excel in matters of customer relations.
• This business or organization also strives to improve the customer experience through communications, problem solving, and innovation.

Quality of Life

• Presented to a business or organization for outstanding contribution to the quality of life of a person, group, or organization in our community.