Award Nominations

Small Business of the Year Award of Distinction Criteria    

• Be at least 51% Alberta owned and operated;
• Have 25 or fewer full-time equivalent employees;
• Be profitable in each of the last three years.

This award recognizes a business that exemplifies outstanding business practices and achievements, demonstrates leadership, growth, and vision, contributes to the economic growth of the region, and plays a positive role in the community.

To be a valid entry, your business must demonstrate excellence in one or more of the following areas:

• Exceptional customer service, healthy workplace environment, growth in business, and perseverance through challenges.

Medium/Large Business of the Year Award of Distinction Criteria

• Be at least 51% Alberta owned and operated;
• Have 26 or more full-time equivalent employees;
• Be profitable in each of the last three years.

This award recognizes a business that exemplifies outstanding business practices and achievements, demonstrates leadership, growth and vision, contributes to the economic growth of the region, and plays a positive role in the community.

To be a valid entry, your business must demonstrate excellence in one or more of the following areas:

• Exceptional customer service, healthy workplace environment, growth in business, and perseverance through challenges.

New Business of the Year Award of Distinction Criteria    

This award recognizes an emerging business/organization that is showing success in business through growth, new product and/or sales, and is demonstrating a connection to the Greater Parkland region. The eligible business/organization has been operating for between one and three fiscal years.

Marketing Award of Distinction Criteria

This award recognizes a business/organization that has developed and implemented successful marketing strategies within the past year which have had a demonstrable impact on business outcomes.

Outstanding Customer Service Award of Distinction Criteria

This award recognizes a business/organization that embodies leadership excellence in customer service.  Have positively impacted the business/organization.  Demonstrates business leadership for the industry in which the business/organization is situated and developed strong relationships and community support.

Non-For-Profit Excellence Award of Distinction Criteria

This award recognizes a non-profit organization that demonstrates an outstanding commitment to strengthening our community and creating meaningful, positive change. Nominees should demonstrate:

• Meaningful Community Impact – Making a positive and measurable difference in the lives of those they serve.
• Community Commitment & Collaboration – Building strong connections through partnerships, volunteers, and community involvement.
• Innovation & Lasting Impact – Finding creative, sustainable ways to respond to community needs and make a lasting difference.

Young Entrepreneur Award of Distinction Criteria

This award recognizes an individual who has played a direct and primary role in the business planning, financial investment, and establishment of the business, and is currently operating it in a leadership capacity. Be operational for a minimum of 1 fiscal year. The nominee must be between the ages of 16-35 at the time of awarding. 

The business must demonstrate financial viability and sound potential growth.  Shows a high level of social, cultural and environmental awareness. Demonstrates a commitment to the wider community; engages in continuous learning or other improvement opportunities designed to advance the economic, social, and environmental prospects of the enterprise.

Gerry Lavasseur Community Champion Award Criteria

The 2nd Annual Gerry Levasseur Community Champion award recognizes an individual who exemplifies the Spirit of Community through their actions and commitment to the betterment of our community. 

 Nominees should possess at least 4 of the following attributes:

• A business owner who invests in the Tri-Region;
• A mentor who gives their time and expertise to mentor entrepreneurs including youth;
• A visionary who leads new initiatives that create positive impacts on the community;
• A leader who builds connections across communities, fostering teamwork, and uniting people towards common goals;
• Actively participating in community life, understanding local issues, and working to improve the well-being of residents;
• Volunteers of their time on local community boards or committees;
• Philanthropist who believes in the importance of giving back to the community.