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  • NOW MORE THAN EVER...

    The amount of determination, innovation, adaptability and strain the business community has had to endure this year is commendable and should not go unnoticed. Now more than ever, we need to recognize how important local business is to our everyday lives.

    In the face of uncertainty, many businesses showed their grit but also put their own interest aside to support the local community. They have offered take-out, delivery and have moved to online and virtual business models. We are inspired by their actions.

    The Greater Vernon Chamber has decided to move forward with a virtual business awards and we very much want you to be a part of the journey to highlight those that went above and beyond.

  • Nominations will be accepted in 10 categories until Aug. 23 at 4 p.m.

    On Oct 23, 2020, the winners of these coveted awards will be revealed during a virtual ceremony

    *** The nominees in 10 categories are ultimately based on completed forms from the nominees. We thank the public for all of the nominations we received. People's Choice is selected through an online, public vote, and Business of the Year is selected by a panel of judges among all nominations***

    *Past winners from previous 2 years are ineligible to win in the same category.

     

  • Thank you sponsors!

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  • CATEGORIES AND CRITERIA 2020

    PRESENTED BY – VALLEY FIRST

    BUSINESS OF THE YEAR SPONSOR - VALLEY FIRST

    • Must have demonstrated a high level of success through:
      • Customer service
      • Growth and profitability
      • Sales and marketing
      • Strategic and tactical planning
      • Employee satisfaction
      • Community Supporter
    • Chosen by the panel of judges from all nominees

     

    PEOPLE'S CHOICE AWARD SPONSOR - TOTAL RESTORATION SERVICES

    • Chosen by a public vote of all nominees
    • Must be a nominee in one of the 10 categories to be eligible
    • Voting begins September 14th

     

    SMALL BUSINESS OF THE YEAR SPONSOR – COMMUNITY FUTURES

    • Must employ from one to 10 employees
    • Must demonstrate a passion for their business
    • Must be in business for longer than two years
    • Must demonstrate high-quality products or services
    • Must demonstrate excellent customer service

     

    NEW BUSINESS OF THE YEAR SPONSOR - MNP LLP

    • Must have been in business for less than two years
    • Must have good growth potential
    • Must demonstrate high-quality products or services
    • Must demonstrate excellent customer service

     

    YOUNG ENTREPRENEUR OF THE YEAR SPONSOR – NIXON WENGER LAWYERS LLP

    • Must have owners below 35 years of age
    • Must demonstrate good growth potential
    • Must demonstrate high-quality products or services
    • Must demonstrate community involvement

     

     INNOVATOR OF THE YEAR AWARD SPONSOR – TD BANK

    • Demonstrates product or service innovation through COVID-19
    • Demonstrates innovative solutions to help employees or customers
    • Shows uniqueness through business
    • Non-profits eligible 
    • Must be in business longer than 2 years.​

     

    EMPLOYER OF THE YEAR SPONSOR - CITY OF VERNON

    • Must be nominated by an employee or group of employees
    • Must demonstrate a fair wage and benefits policy
    • Must promote family and workplace balance
    • Must demonstrate open consistent communications with staff
    • Must be in business for longer than two years
    • Must have a minimum of 10 staff

     

    CUSTOMER SERVICE AWARD SPONSOR - OKANAGAN SPRING BREWERY

    • Must demonstrate a consistently outstanding level of customer service, product support and after sales service
    • Goes above and beyond to meet customer needs
    • Must be in business for longer than two years

     

    MANUFACTURER OF THE YEAR SPONSOR – TEKMAR CONTROL SYSTEMS

    • Must demonstrate a successful ability to manufacture a high quality product
    • Must show innovation through the manufacturing process
    • Must be in business for longer than two years

     

    NON-PROFIT EXCELLENCE AWARD SPONSOR – COMMUNITY FOUNDATION OF NORTH OKANAGAN

    • This award is presented to the organization that exemplifies excellence and innovation in its 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 its vision and mandate.

     

    COMMUNITY LEADER OF THE YEAR SPONSOR - DE VINE VINTNERS

    • An outstanding business in Greater Vernon
    • Significantly contributed to the betterment of the community has a direct positive impact on residents of Greater Vernon
    • Promote staff volunteerism in community organizations
    • Must have provided financial contributions, sponsorships or volunteer hours to the community

     

    BUSINESS PERSON OF THE YEAR SPONSOR – KAL TIRE

    • Individual who must be in business more than 5 years
    • Requires a history of business success, excellence and innovation
    • Must demonstrate commitment and passion for their business
    • Considered a leader in the business community