Oshawa Chamber to celebrate the best in business at awards gala September 26

The finalists for the Greater Oshawa Chamber of Commerce 2023 Business Excellence Awards were announced Wednesday, with 16 nominees up in eight different categories.

The gala event will take place September 26 at the Tosca Banquet Hall.

The awards recognize the dedication of businesses and individuals who contribute to the economic and social vitality of the Oshawa community, with judging for each award carried out by board members and staff from various chambers of commerce outside of Durham Region, ensuring an impartial evaluation process.

Excellence in Business Award 1-30 Employees

Nominees for this award exemplify outstanding achievements in various aspects of their business. Their remarkable contributions to research and development, company growth, product excellence, and innovative sales and marketing strategies highlight their exceptional role within the small to medium enterprise sector.

Finalists (in alphabetical order): New Vision Optical, Pinchin Ltd.

Excellence in Business Award 30+ Employees

This award recognizes distinguished accomplishments of established businesses. Their impact is evident through exceptional growth, product and service excellence, and community engagement, emphasizing their prominent standing within the industry and community.

Finalists: Ontario Motor Sales, Pathwise Credit Union

Business Person of the Year Award

Nominees for this award represent a blend of innovation, leadership, and community engagement. Recognized for their history of business success and exceptional leadership, they serve as models of integrity and professionalism. Their creative initiatives and role as a responsible employer stand as a testament to their commitment to both business excellence and the betterment of the community.

Finalists: Mark Bull (President, W.B. White), Erik Tamm (Managing Partner, The Oshawa Markets)

Emerging Business Award

Operational for less than five years, nominated businesses demonstrate exceptional initiative, creativity, and community involvement. This nomination showcases their remarkable achievements in company growth, sales and marketing strategies, and exemplary customer service. Being a role model for fellow entrepreneurs, they exhibit the dynamism and promise of a rising star in their industry.

Finalists: The Oshawa Markets, The Ten Spot

Innovation Award

The Innovation Award acknowledges individuals or organizations that, over a span of at least three years, have introduced transformative ideas, processes, or initiatives proven to create meaningful and positive change within their organization or community. This award celebrates the courage to challenge norms and the impact of innovative thinking.

Finalists: Alary Technologies, Render Developments

Not-For-Profit of the Year Award

Being nominated for this award underscores a not-for-profit organization’s exceptional dedication to community involvement and volunteerism, innovative services, and positive societal impact. Their solid business foundation, efforts in leadership, and broadened education contribute to a stronger, more compassionate society.

Finalists: Community Living Oshawa/Clarington, Hearth Place Cancer Support Center

Sustainability Award

Nominees for the Sustainability Award demonstrate a dedicated commitment to environmentally conscious operations. Their efforts, including greenhouse gas reduction, energy efficiency improvements, and waste reduction, reflect their strong alignment of environmental responsibility and business success.

Finalists: 360 Eco Market, Ontario Power Generation

Tourism Operator of The Year Award

As the newest addition, this award recognizes organizations for their excellence in the tourism industry. These organizations showcase innovation, exceptional customer satisfaction, and commitment to sustainability. Their outstanding leadership, employee welfare, marketing prowess, and safety measures distinguish them as trailblazers in the tourism sector.

Finalists: Parkwood Estates, The Oshawa Markets

(There will also be a new Intrapreneur of the Year award, though the names of the finalists are being kept under wraps until the event.)

The awards will be presented at the Chamber’s 28th annual Awards Gala on September 26 at Tosca Banquet Hall.

Limited tickets are still available. Visit https://bit.ly/2023 for more information.