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• Community Builder Excellence

  The Community Builder Excellence Award celebrates businesses of all sizes that collaborate with others to make a positive impact. Through partnerships, volunteering, financial or in-kind contributions, and community involvement, the recipient motivates their team to give back consistently.  They don't just do business—they build community and foster meaningful connections that help local causes thrive.

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• Hospitality Excellence

  The Hospitality Excellence Award recognizes a business in the hospitality and tourism sector that delivers exceptional guest and visitor experiences while contributing to the South Okanagan's reputation as a premier destination. Open to businesses such as accommodations, restaurants, wineries, breweries, tour operators, attractions, and recreation providers, this award celebrates excellence in service, innovation, and regional impact.

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• Marketing & Communications

  Marketing and Communications are vital for the success of any organization. This award recognizes a business or organization that excels in how they communicate, connect, and promote — whether through marketing their own brand or providing expert marketing services to others.

  Strong, strategic marketing and communications are essential for growth, visibility, and trust. The recipient stands out for their creativity, brand clarity, audience engagement, and ability to deliver consistent, impactful messaging. 

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• Service Excellence

  Service Excellence Award recognizes a business that demonstrates exceptional commitment to delivering outstanding service at every level. Whether in retail, hospitality, or professional services, the recipient consistently exceeds customer expectations through innovation, professionalism, and a strong service-focused culture. They are recognized for their business success, attention to detail, and dedication to creating a positive and lasting customer experience.

• Workplace Culture Excellence

  The Workplace Culture Excellence Award recognizes organizations and businesses that prioritize diversity, inclusion, accessibility, and employee well-being. Through innovative practices and supportive policies, they create environments where all team members—regardless of age or background—can grow, succeed, and contribute. The recipient also strengthens community culture through creativity and engagement.

• Not for Profit Excellence

  The Not-for-Profit Excellence Award recognizes a registered non-profit society or charity that has been incorporated for a minimum of three years and is dedicated to making a meaningful difference in the South Okanagan through its unique mandate. The recipient demonstrates an outstanding record of achievement, adheres to the highest ethical standards, and shows genuine care and commitment to the community.

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• New Business Award

  The New Business of the Year Award celebrates the success of a rising leader making a strong early impact in their industry. This award recognizes a business that demonstrates innovation, sustainable practices, and measurable momentum in its first years of operation. *Business must have been in operation for a minimum of one year and less than three years as of September 1, 2025

• Young Business Leader of the Year

  The Young Business Leader of the Year Award honours an inspiring business and community leader between the ages of 19 and 39 (as of September 1, 2025) who is making a meaningful impact within their organization and the broader community.

  Whether they founded the business or are part of its leadership team, this individual is recognized for their entrepreneurial spirit, innovation, and leadership. They demonstrate a clear vision for contributing to their community's growth and prosperity, and they are helping shape the future of business.

• Business Leader of the Year

  The Business Leader of the Year Award recognizes an exceptional business and community leader aged 40 or over (as of September 1, 2025) with a minimum of four years' combined experience in ownership, management, or leadership roles—across one or multiple businesses. The recipient demonstrates outstanding leadership, strategic vision, and a strong commitment to innovation, integrity, and community engagement. They serve as a positive role model and contribute significantly to the success and growth of the South Okanagan business community.

• Business of the Year

  Business of the Year Award Honouring a business that exemplifies excellence across every area — from customer experience and innovation to leadership, team culture, and community impact. This award recognizes a business that consistently performs at a high level and inspires others through its example. Must be in operation for at least five years as of September 1, 2025. Not-for-Profits are not eligible for this award. 

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