The Small Business Awards recognizes excellence in six categories that represent the diverse and vibrant small business community, here in the Region of Waterloo.
To be recognized as a Nominee, you must:
- Accept your nomination by Monday, July 6th, 2026, complete your electronic submission kit for consideration by Sunday, August 16th, 2026 AND purchase your ticket/s*
- Be a Small Business with 20 or less paid employees* in your business/organization, and operate independently. (*unless otherwise stated in the individual award category descriptions)
- Be a Greater Kitchener Waterloo Chamber of Commerce Member in good standing or must become one by the date that submission kits are due .
- Have been in operation for a minimum of two consecutive years (Sunday, August 16th, 2026).
Awards (Awarded by Public Voting)GROUP
Exceptional Small Business of the Year Award
Requirements
Awarded to a small business/organization that, in the past year, has been seen amongst their peers and/or community as an exceptional small business. Nominees are recognized for their efforts and are often seen as “the best” in what they do.
The winner will be determined by the highest number of votes during the voting period. Votes will be made from the public, including peers, customers, and community.
Awards (Awarded through Judging Process)GROUP
Event Impact Award
Requirements
Awarded to small business/organization OR individual, who in the past year, executed an event that:
• Demonstrated creativity and innovation through the planning, design, and/or execution, providing a unique and memorable experience for guests.
• Achieved measurable success, in terms of attendance, engagement, funds raised, and/or exceeded event goal(s).
• Provided a positive and inclusive environment at the event.
• Prioritized good corporate citizenship, by supporting our local businesses and/or incorporating sustainable practices.
Before completing your Submission Kit, we encourage you to refer to this page to see "What Makes a Winning Kit"!
Service Excellence Award
Requirements
Awarded to a small business/organization that, in the past year:
• Committed to providing top-quality customer service and/or guest experiences and showed a genuine interest/understanding of the individual needs/preferences of their customers.
• Has been innovative in service delivery, continuously seeking ways to improve and enhance the customer experience.
• Achieved measurable success as a business.
• Practiced good corporate citizenship, established a culture of inclusivity, and/or promoted community betterment.
Before completing your Submission Kit, we encourage you to refer to this page to see "What Makes a Winning Kit"!
Skilled Trades Award
Requirements
Awarded to small business/organization in skilled trades that, in the past year:
• Demonstrated a commitment to the well-being of its employees and clients through quality workmanship, elevated safety practices, and ongoing training and development.
• Has been innovative in their techniques, technologies, and sustainability efforts.
• Achieved measurable success as a business.
• Practiced good corporate citizenship, established a culture of inclusivity, and/or promoted community betterment.
Before completing your Submission Kit, we encourage you to refer to this page to see "What Makes a Winning Kit"!
Entrepreneur of the Year Award
Requirements
Awarded to an individual who, in the past year:
• Ran their own business, including day-to-day operations, and had no more than 20 paid employees*.
• Embodied an entrepreneurial spirit, and demonstrated vision, innovation, resilience, and leadership.
• Achieved measurable success as a business.
• Practiced good corporate citizenship, established a culture of inclusivity, and/or promoted community betterment.
*Refers to permanent employees. Hiring outside contractors or freelancers to outsource specific tasks or projects doesn't count as paid employees.
Before completing your Submission Kit, we encourage you to refer to this page to see "What Makes a Winning Kit"!
Employer of the Year Award
Requirements
Awarded to a small business/organization that, in the past year:
• Established a positive and inclusive workplace culture.
• Prioritized the overall well-being of their employees and showed a commitment to employee growth and development.
• Achieved measurable success as a business.
• Practiced good corporate citizenship and/or promoted community betterment.
