The Innovation Award
Description
This award honours a business that has pioneered an innovative product, service, or process that has significantly boosted revenue, job creation, or market competitiveness. Nominees should demonstrate measurable success in their innovation, with clear benefits to their business operations and the local economy. The award recognizes trailblazing businesses that push the boundaries of what's possible.
Requirements
Eligibility
- Nominees must have substantial business operations within the Town of Oakville and/or be a member in good standing of the Oakville Chamber of Commerce.
- Nominees must have been in business for at least two years as of December 31, 2024.
- Nominees must demonstrate financial stability, with no history of bankruptcy or major legal issues in the past two years.
- Nominees must agree to attend the awards event and participate in promotional activities if selected as finalists.
- Nominees must provide the date of business registration or incorporation and demonstrate compliance with all regulatory requirements (e.g., licenses, permits) necessary to operate in Oakville.
- Crown Corporations and 100% government-funded organizations are not eligible.
- Members of the Board of Directors (and their employees) of the Oakville Chamber and participating partners are not eligible for nomination.
The CN Altruism Award
Description
This award recognizes a charity or not-for-profit organization leader that has significantly impacted Oakville through its charitable, social, or environmental initiatives. Nominees must demonstrate innovation and sustainability in addressing community needs, with measurable outcomes that enhance the quality of life. The award celebrates those dedicated to long-term positive change and addressing social challenges within the community.
Requirements
Eligibility
- Nominees must have substantial business operations within the Town of Oakville and/or be a member in good standing of the Oakville Chamber of Commerce.
- Nominees must have been in business for at least two years as of December 31, 2024.
- Nominees must demonstrate financial stability, with no history of bankruptcy or major legal issues in the past two years.
- Nominees must agree to attend the awards event and participate in promotional activities if selected as finalists.
- Nominees must provide the date of business registration or incorporation and demonstrate compliance with all regulatory requirements (e.g., licenses, permits) necessary to operate in Oakville.
- Crown Corporations and 100% government-funded organizations are not eligible.
- Members of the Board of Directors (and their employees) of the Oakville Chamber and participating partners are not eligible for nomination.
The Sagen Entrepreneur Award
Description
This award celebrates emerging business leaders that have demonstrated remarkable entrepreneurial spirit, innovation, and growth. Nominees should exhibit strong leadership, contribute positively to the local economy, and show potential for long-term success. The award acknowledges the next generation of business leaders, whose achievements inspire and foster a culture of entrepreneurship in Oakville.
Requirements
Eligibility
- Nominees must have substantial business operations within the Town of Oakville and/or be a member in good standing of the Oakville Chamber of Commerce.
- Nominees must have been in business for at least two years as of December 31, 2024.
- Nominees must demonstrate financial stability, with no history of bankruptcy or major legal issues in the past two years.
- Nominees must agree to attend the awards event and participate in promotional activities if selected as finalists.
- Nominees must provide the date of business registration or incorporation and demonstrate compliance with all regulatory requirements (e.g., licenses, permits) necessary to operate in Oakville.
- Crown Corporations and 100% government-funded organizations are not eligible.
- Members of the Board of Directors (and their employees) of the Oakville Chamber and participating partners are not eligible for nomination.
The KPMG Small Business Award
Description
This award honours a business with 1 to 5 full-time equivalent employees that makes a significant impact within Oakville and its surrounding communities and/or generates up to $2 million in annual revenue.
Requirements
Eligibility
- Nominees must have substantial business operations within the Town of Oakville and/or be a member in good standing of the Oakville Chamber of Commerce.
- Nominees must have been in business for at least two years as of December 31, 2024.
- Nominees must demonstrate financial stability, with no history of bankruptcy or major legal issues in the past two years.
- Nominees must agree to attend the awards event and participate in promotional activities if selected as finalists.
- Nominees must provide the date of business registration or incorporation and demonstrate compliance with all regulatory requirements (e.g., licenses, permits) necessary to operate in Oakville.
- Crown Corporations and 100% government-funded organizations are not eligible.
- Members of the Board of Directors (and their employees) of the Oakville Chamber and participating partners are not eligible for nomination.
The Cogeco Business Leader Award
Description
This prestigious award honours an individual who has demonstrated visionary leadership and made significant contributions to their organization and the broader Oakville business community. Nominees should embody integrity, ethical leadership, and a commitment to innovation and excellence. The award is open to leaders from businesses of all sizes who have positively shaped Oakville's economic landscape and supported community development.
Requirements
Eligibility
- Nominees must have substantial business operations within the Town of Oakville and/or be a member in good standing of the Oakville Chamber of Commerce.
- Nominees must have been in business for at least two years as of December 31, 2024.
- Nominees must demonstrate financial stability, with no history of bankruptcy or major legal issues in the past two years.
- Nominees must agree to attend the awards event and participate in promotional activities if selected as finalists.
- Nominees must provide the date of business registration or incorporation and demonstrate compliance with all regulatory requirements (e.g., licenses, permits) necessary to operate in Oakville.
- Crown Corporations and 100% government-funded organizations are not eligible.
- Members of the Board of Directors (and their employees) of the Oakville Chamber and participating partners are not eligible for nomination.
The Visit Oakville Tourism Award
Description
This award celebrates an organization that positively contributes to the local tourism industry and helps ignite a love for Oakville. Nominees should demonstrate efforts in attracting visitors to Oakville, providing an exceptional customer experience, and contributing to making Oakville a vibrant and welcoming community. The award recognizes the importance of tourism practices that strengthen Oakville's economy and are socially, culturally, and environmentally responsible, benefitting both residents and visitors.
Requirements
Eligibility
- Nominees must have substantial business operations within the Town of Oakville and/or be a member in good standing of the Oakville Chamber of Commerce.
- Nominees must have been in business for at least two years as of December 31, 2024.
- Nominees must demonstrate financial stability, with no history of bankruptcy or major legal issues in the past two years.
- Nominees must agree to attend the awards event and participate in promotional activities if selected as finalists.
- Nominees must provide the date of business registration or incorporation and demonstrate compliance with all regulatory requirements (e.g., licenses, permits) necessary to operate in Oakville.
- Crown Corporations and 100% government-funded organizations are not eligible.
- Members of the Board of Directors (and their employees) of the Oakville Chamber and participating partners are not eligible for nomination.
Emerging Talent Employer Champion Award
Description
Presented to an employer who demonstrates an exceptional commitment to supporting emerging talent by providing meaningful opportunities for student or entry-level employees. This includes the creation and support of co-op placements, internships, and work-integrated learning experiences that foster career development and help build a strong future workforce.
Requirements
Eligibility: Open to businesses of all sizes and sectors operating in Oakville that demonstrate a strong commitment to developing emerging talent (e.g., high school, college, university students, or recent graduates).
Award Criteria:
Nominees will be evaluated on the following:
- Work-Integrated Learning Opportunities
Demonstrated commitment to offering student placements, internships, co-op programs, or entry-level roles that provide hands-on, relevant experience aligned with the student's field of study. - Career Development Support
Evidence of mentorship, training, and coaching programs that support the career progression of emerging talent. - Inclusive and Supportive Work Environment
Commitment to creating a welcoming and inclusive culture that fosters learning, innovation, and confidence among new talent. - Sustained Engagement
Ongoing partnerships with educational institutions or workforce development organizations to support talent pipelines. - Impact and Outcomes
Demonstrated success stories or measurable impact (e.g., conversion to full-time roles, student feedback, retention of young talent).
The Oakville Hydro Sustainability Award
Description
This award honours businesses that have shown exceptional leadership in environmental sustainability and energy efficiency. Nominees should demonstrate innovative practices that minimize environmental impact, such as reducing waste, utilizing renewable energy, or promoting eco-friendly initiatives. This award highlights businesses that are not only achieving financial success but also driving positive environmental change in Oakville.
Requirements
Eligibility
- Nominees must have substantial business operations within the Town of Oakville and/or be a member in good standing of the Oakville Chamber of Commerce.
- Nominees must have been in business for at least two years as of December 31, 2024.
- Nominees must demonstrate financial stability, with no history of bankruptcy or major legal issues in the past two years.
- Nominees must agree to attend the awards event and participate in promotional activities if selected as finalists.
- Nominees must provide the date of business registration or incorporation and demonstrate compliance with all regulatory requirements (e.g., licenses, permits) necessary to operate in Oakville.
- Crown Corporations and 100% government-funded organizations are not eligible.
- Members of the Board of Directors (and their employees) of the Oakville Chamber and participating partners are not eligible for nomination.
The RBC Royal Bank Large Business Award
Description
This award honours a business with more than 20 employees that demonstrates excellence while serving provincial, national, or international markets and/or generating over $10 million in annual revenue.
Requirements
Eligibility
- Nominees must have substantial business operations within the Town of Oakville and/or be a member in good standing of the Oakville Chamber of Commerce.
- Nominees must have been in business for at least two years as of December 31, 2024.
- Nominees must demonstrate financial stability, with no history of bankruptcy or major legal issues in the past two years.
- Nominees must agree to attend the awards event and participate in promotional activities if selected as finalists.
- Nominees must provide the date of business registration or incorporation and demonstrate compliance with all regulatory requirements (e.g., licenses, permits) necessary to operate in Oakville.
- Crown Corporations and 100% government-funded organizations are not eligible.
- Members of the Board of Directors (and their employees) of the Oakville Chamber and participating partners are not eligible for nomination.
The Henderson Partners Mid-size Business Award
Description
This award honors a business with 5 to 20 employees that exemplifies success in regional and provincial markets and/or achieves annual revenues between $2 to $10 million.
Requirements
Eligibility
- Nominees must have substantial business operations within the Town of Oakville and/or be a member in good standing of the Oakville Chamber of Commerce.
- Nominees must have been in business for at least two years as of December 31, 2024.
- Nominees must demonstrate financial stability, with no history of bankruptcy or major legal issues in the past two years.
- Nominees must agree to attend the awards event and participate in promotional activities if selected as finalists.
- Nominees must provide the date of business registration or incorporation and demonstrate compliance with all regulatory requirements (e.g., licenses, permits) necessary to operate in Oakville.
- Crown Corporations and 100% government-funded organizations are not eligible.
- Members of the Board of Directors (and their employees) of the Oakville Chamber and participating partners are not eligible for nomination.
The O'Connor MacLeod Hanna Community Award
Description
This award recognizes businesses that have made meaningful contributions to the Oakville community through active engagement and social responsibility. Nominees exemplify leadership in corporate social responsibility, participating in initiatives that promote community development, volunteerism, and philanthropy. This award celebrates businesses of all sizes that foster inclusivity and positive community relations, reinforcing the idea that social responsibility is key to sustainable success.
Requirements
Eligibility
- Nominees must have substantial business operations within the Town of Oakville and/or be a member in good standing of the Oakville Chamber of Commerce.
- Nominees must have been in business for at least two years as of December 31, 2024.
- Nominees must demonstrate financial stability, with no history of bankruptcy or major legal issues in the past two years.
- Nominees must agree to attend the awards event and participate in promotional activities if selected as finalists.
- Nominees must provide the date of business registration or incorporation and demonstrate compliance with all regulatory requirements (e.g., licenses, permits) necessary to operate in Oakville.
- Crown Corporations and 100% government-funded organizations are not eligible.
- Members of the Board of Directors (and their employees) of the Oakville Chamber and participating partners are not eligible for nomination.
