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Description

🌟Do you know a business that goes above and beyond to support the community? *Business must have been in operation for a minimum of two years as of September 1, 2024. *Nonprofits are ineligible for this award.

Requirements

The Community Builder Excellence Award celebrates businesses that embody social responsibility by actively enhancing their communities. Eligible businesses, demonstrate exceptional commitment through tangible contributions to sports, recreation, events, arts, charitable organizations, and non-profit initiatives.

*To qualify, business must have been in operation for a minimum of two years as of September 1, 2024.

*Non-Profit Organizations are ineligible for this award.

Active Community Involvement:

• Business and its employees are recognized for consistent and meaningful engagement in community activities. 
• They contribute their time and expertise to support local causes and initiatives.

Commitment to Community Development:

• Business exhibits a sustained dedication to building diverse, inclusive, and cohesive communities.
• Actively seeks opportunities to support initiatives that promote community development and social integration.

Promotion of Corporate Philanthropy:

• Business fosters a culture of giving by investing in community welfare beyond its core business goals. This includes initiatives that create lasting positive impacts on society.

The judging process assesses each business individually using a structured judging matrix. Judges review and score each completed nominee package independently, without contacting the nominees during the initial phase. 

Description

🌟 Have you had the pleasure of experiencing exceptional hospitality and adventure at a food or beverage establishment, hotel, motel, campground, event, or venue? *Business must have been in operation for a minimum of two years as of September 1, 2024. *Nonprofits are ineligible for this award.

Requirements

The Hospitality Excellence Award celebrates businesses in the South Okanagan Region that significantly enhance the local hospitality and tourism industry and overall visitor experience.

The award emphasizes the importance of warm, welcoming, and entertaining experiences for guests. Includes accommodations (including campgrounds), restaurants, cafes, adventure and recreation providers, wineries, breweries, cideries, distilleries, attractions, tour companies, and family-friendly activities.

To qualify, businesses must have been in operation for a minimum of two years as of September 1, 2024.

Non-profit organizations ineligible for this award for this award.

Positive Feedback and Reviews:

• Receive consistent positive feedback and reviews from customers through various channels.
• Testimonials should emphasize exceptional hospitality and customer experience, enhancing the reputation of both the business and Penticton.

Collaboration with Industry Partners:

• Actively collaborates with other industry partners to improve the overall customer experience.
• Partnerships contribute to a cohesive and memorable visitor experience, supporting Penticton's vision as a preferred destination.

Community Impact:

• Has a significant impact on the economic, environmental, social, and cultural aspects of the community.
• Contributes to the local economy, support sustainable practices, engage in community initiatives, and promote the region's cultural heritage.

Adaptability and Creativity:

• Demonstrates resilience and adaptability in overcoming industry challenges.
• Innovative solutions to maintain high service standards and guest satisfaction.

The judging process assesses each business individually using a structured judging matrix. Judges review and score each completed nominee package independently, without contacting the nominees during the initial phase. 

Description

🌟Are you aware of a recently established business that has demonstrated remarkable growth, innovation, and success? *Business must have been in operation for less than 3 years as of September 1, 2024. *Nonprofits are ineligible for this award.

Requirements

The New Business Award celebrates the achievements of a recently established business operating for less than three years as of September 1, 2024. This award recognizes exceptional business performance achieved in a short period and aims to inspire other new ventures. 

To qualify, businesses must have been in operation for less than three years as of September 1, 2024.

Non-profit organizations are ineligible for this award.

Promise for Continued Growth:

• The business shows potential for ongoing growth and success.
• It has established a strong foundation and has strategies to sustain its growth trajectory.

Entrepreneurial Spirit:

• The business demonstrates innovation, risk-taking, and adaptability.
• Explores new opportunities, challenges the status quo, and creatively overcomes obstacles.

Connection to the Community:

• The business actively engages with and contributes to the Penticton community.
• Builds genuine connections through partnerships, collaborations, or support of community initiatives.

Reputation for Integrity and Customer Service:

• The business strives to establish a reputation for integrity and excellent customer service.
• Prioritizes building customer trust, delivering exceptional experiences, and maintaining ethical business practices.

The judging process assesses each business individually using a structured judging matrix. Judges review and score each completed nominee package independently, without contacting the nominees during the initial phase. 

Description

🌟Have you ever encountered a business that consistently goes above and beyond to deliver exceptional service, exceeding all your expectations? *Business must have been in operation for a minimum of two years as of September 1, 2024. *Nonprofits are ineligible for this award.

Requirements

The Service Excellence Award recognizes businesses that excel in customer service, celebrating their commitment to exceptional service delivery, customer loyalty, and community engagement. 

To qualify, businesses must have been in operation for a minimum of two years as of September 1, 2024.

Non-profit organizations are ineligible for this award.

Adaptability to Customer Needs:

• Demonstrates proficiency in meeting evolving customer demands, ensuring products, services, and interactions remain relevant and valuable.

High Service Standards and Training:

• Maintains superior service standards through effective staff training, equipping employees with skills and resources to consistently deliver exceptional service.

Exceeding Expectations:

• Regularly exceeds customer expectations, building a reputation for outstanding customer experiences and leaving a lasting positive impression.

Customer Feedback and Reviews:

• Consistently receives positive feedback and reviews, indicating high customer satisfaction and exemplary service quality.

The judging process assesses each business individually using a structured judging matrix. Judges review and score each completed nominee package independently, without contacting the nominees during the initial phase. 

Description

🌟Do you know a business that has showcased exemplary marketing strategies and effective communication efforts? *Business must have been in operation for a minimum of two years as of September 1, 2024.

Requirements

Marketing and Communications are vital for the success of any organization. This award recognizes businesses and nonprofits that have demonstrated outstanding achievements in their marketing efforts, regardless of size or budget. The award celebrates organizations that excel in innovative marketing, audience engagement, brand storytelling, community involvement, and integrated marketing efforts.

This award is open to all businesses that demonstrate excellence in their own marketing efforts, as well as those that specialize in marketing services.

*To qualify, must have been in operation for a minimum of two years as of September 1, 2024.

Innovative Marketing Strategies: Demonstrates creativity and originality in its recent marketing campaigns.

Audience Engagement: Show effective strategies to engage and retain the target audience.

Integrated Marketing Approach: Maintains consistent and cohesive marketing across various channels.

Community and Customer Focus: Strong community involvement and customer-focused communication. 

The judging process assesses each business individually using a structured judging matrix. Judges review and score each completed nominee package independently, without contacting the nominees during the initial phase. 

Description

🌟 Have you come across a non-profit organization that has made a remarkable impact on the community through its programs and initiatives? *Must have been in operation for a minimum of two years as of September 1, 2024. *Must be registered charitable society or non-profit organization.

Requirements

The Not-for-Profit Excellence Award recognizes not-for-profit or charitable organizations dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for residents and making outstanding contributions to the community.

These organizations align their efforts with their vision and mission that contribute to the social and cultural well-being of their community. 

Eligible organizations must be incorporated as a society or charity and operate for a minimum of two years as of September 1, 2024.

Organization will be required to provide registered charitable society or non-profit organization number when they complete their nominee submission form. 

Excellence in Programs, Projects, and Partnerships:

• Demonstrates innovative, effective programs, projects, and partnerships that address community needs and fulfill organizational mission.

Strengthening Community:

• Actively contributes to community strength by promoting social cohesion, inclusivity, and meaningful community engagement.
• Foster connections and collaborations among individuals, organizations, and stakeholders to build a resilient community.

Leadership and Measurable Impact:

• Shows strong leadership and achieves measurable success aligned with their mandate, demonstrating impact and positive outcomes for individuals and the community.

The judging process assesses each business individually using a structured judging matrix. 

Description

🌟Do you know of a business that creates a nurturing, inclusive, and engaging work environment for its employees? *Business must have been in operation for a minimum of 2 year as of Sept 1, 2024.

Requirements

The Workplace Culture Excellence Award recognizes organizations that lead the way in creating exemplary workplace environments. These organizations emphasize the overall well-being of their employees, championing diversity, inclusivity, safety, and ongoing professional growth. Through innovative practices, they establish workplaces where every team member is empowered to succeed and contribute meaningfully.

To qualify, businesses must have been in operation for a minimum of two years as of September 1, 2024.

Diversity and Inclusion:

• Actively promoting equal opportunities for employees of all backgrounds, including abilities, ages, ethnicities, genders, religions, and sexual orientations, ensuring a workplace free from discrimination.

Employee Well-being:

• Supporting both mental and physical health through comprehensive wellness programs and resources that foster a balanced work environment.

Learning and Growth:

• Committing to continuous education and skill development through robust training initiatives and professional development opportunities.

Team Collaboration:

• Cultivating a collaborative and supportive environment where teams can flourish, fostering innovation and collective success.

Fair Employment Practices:

• Offering competitive and equitable employment packages that include fair compensation, benefits, and career advancement opportunities aligned with industry standards.

The judging process assesses each business individually using a structured judging matrix. Judges review and score each completed nominee package independently, without contacting the nominees during the initial phase. 

Description

🌟Do you know an outstanding young professional who has made impressive strides in their career? *Must be aged 19 to 40 as of Sept 1, 2024 and in a ownership, leadership, management role for a minimum of 2 years.

Requirements

The Young Professional of the Year Award celebrates exceptional leaders aged 19 to 40 as of September 1, 2024, who have demonstrated outstanding achievements in business, creativity, community involvement, and entrepreneurial spirit. 

Eligibility: 

Eligible nominee must be in an ownership, management, or leadership role for a minimum of two years as of September 1, 2024 *does not need to be with the same business or organization.(updated July 17, 2024)

*The business or non-profit the nominee is affiliated with at the time of nomination must have a valid a business license where applicable or be a registered non-profit or society. (updated July 17, 2024)

Nominees must be aged 40 and under as of September 1, 2024.

Self-nominations are not accepted; candidates are encouraged to seek nomination through mentors or community leaders.

Next-Generation Leader:

• Nominees represent the future of business leadership, demonstrate entrepreneurial spirit, showcasing potential, drive, and a clear vision for contributing to Penticton's ongoing growth and prosperity.

Impactful Contributions:

• Candidates have made contributions to the local economy and/or society through innovative business ventures, ideas, or initiatives.
• Their efforts should have led to economic growth, job creation, or enhanced social well-being.

Community Engagement:

• Nominees actively participate in community initiatives and serve as positive role models.
• They contribute to community-building efforts, support local causes, and make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.

The judging process assesses each nominee individually using a structured judging matrix. Judges review and score each completed package independently, without contacting the nominees during the initial phase. 

Description

🌟 Do you know a business leader who exemplifies passion, leadership, and dedication to our community? *Must be aged 40 or older as of Sept 1, 2024 and in an ownership, management or leadership role for more than 2 years.

Requirements

The Business Leader of the Year Award celebrates business and community leaders aged 40 or older as of September 1, 2024.

This award recognizes individuals for their strategic vision, integrity, customer service, community engagement, innovation, leadership and dedication to achieving business excellence.

Eligibility Criteria: 

Eligible nominee must be in an ownership, management, or leadership role for more than two years as of September 1, 2024 *does not need to be with the same business or organization.(updated July 17, 2024)

Self-nominations are not accepted.

Impactful Contribution to the Business Environment:

• The nominee has left a lasting mark on the local business landscape, setting new benchmarks for success in their industry.

Customer Service, Community Engagement, and Innovation:

• The nominee is recognized for consistently delivering exceptional customer experiences.
• They actively participate in community initiatives, demonstrating a commitment to supporting local causes and making a positive impact. Moreover, the nominee leads by example, encouraging innovation that enhances community life.

Leadership and Mentorship:

• The nominee serves as a role model of leadership, actively mentoring others while fostering robust customer relationships.
• Exemplify corporate responsibility and inspire excellence among their peers and colleagues.

The judging process assesses each nominee individually using a structured judging matrix. Judges review and score each completed package independently, without contacting the nominees during the initial phase. 

Description

🌟Is there a business that stands out as the epitome of success, innovation, and excellence in our community? *Business must be in operation a minimum of 4 years as of Sept 1, 2024. *Nonprofits are ineligible for this award.

Requirements

The Business of the Year Award recognizes exceptional businesses that embody excellence in leadership, innovation, community impact, and overall business performance. This prestigious award recognizes businesses that demonstrate outstanding achievements across various criteria, setting a benchmark for success and contributing positively to their communities.

Non-profit organizations are ineligible for this award.

Business Operations: Recognizes businesses operating for a minimum of four years as of September 1, 2024, exhibiting financial stability and sustainable growth.

Leadership and Innovation: Celebrates businesses with visionary leadership and a strategic approach to innovation in products, services, or operational practices.

Community Impact: Acknowledges businesses that actively engage with and contribute to their local communities through initiatives, sponsorships, or volunteerism.

Employee Relations and Workplace Culture: Highlights businesses fostering a positive workplace culture that promotes employee well-being, growth, and inclusivity.

Customer Service Excellence: Commends businesses that prioritize exceptional customer service and satisfaction, utilizing feedback for continuous improvement.

Ethical Practices and Corporate Citizenship: Recognizes businesses operating with integrity, ethical standards, and a commitment to corporate social responsibility.

Innovation and Adaptability: Applauds businesses that demonstrate resilience and adaptability in response to market challenges, leveraging innovation and technology.

The judging process assesses each business individually using a structured judging matrix. Judges review and score each completed nominee package independently, without contacting the nominees during the initial phase.