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Category

• Game Changer Award

  The Game Changer Award is presented to an individual, business, organization, or partnership that introduces new offerings, breakthrough solutions, or a revolutionary approach that enhances our lives and challenges the status quo. Through their collaborative efforts, they inspire Thunder Bay leaders and businesses to think differently about how they serve their clients, employees, and community. This can be a single nomination or joint nomination. (submitted only once, naming all partners)

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• Looking Good Award

  Presented to a business/organization that has completed renovations or restored a property or building that already exists, incorporating green building practices and making a positive impact on its surrounding community.

  Project must have been completed within the last 2 years. (January 2024-December 2025)

  Sponsors

  

• Quality of Life Award

  Presented to a business or organization for outstanding contribution to the quality of life of a person, group, or organization in our community.

  Sponsors

  

• Customer Service Award

  Presented to a business or organization that is committed to high standards of customer service. This business or organization delivers exceptional service in their dealings with customers and educates and encourages their staff to improve and excel in matters of customer relations. This business or organization also strives to improve the customer experience through communications, problem solving and innovation.

  Sponsors

  

• New Business Excellence Award

  Presented to a new locally owned business that has demonstrated innovation, vision, employment creation, and business growth prospects.

  Must be in operation for at least one year but within four years (January 2022 – December 2024).

  Sponsors

  

• Not for Profit Excellence Award

  This award is presented to a not-for-profit organization that exemplifies excellence and innovation in their programs, projects, and partnerships. Their commitment to growth and expanded programs, as well as service, community involvement, sustainable practices and/or job creation/development, demonstrates a dedicated focus on achieving their vision and mandate.

  Sponsors

  

• Business Person of the Year Award

  Presented to an individual in an ownership or management position who exemplifies visionary business management, proactive employee and customer relations, a commitment to strengthening diversity and inclusion, and a dedication to community service.

  Sponsors

  

• Equity Diversity and Inclusion Award

  This award celebrates individuals, organizations, or partnerships that have shown exceptional dedication to creating a diverse, equitable, and inclusive environment, especially for those who historically have been under-represented (women, visible/racialized minorities, Indigenous peoples, persons with disabilities, and 2SLGBTQI+). It honours those who have successfully implemented innovative practices and initiatives that break down barriers, promote fairness, and ensure that everyone feels welcomed and valued. Award recipients are recognized for their leadership in advocating for social justice, driving meaningful change, and/or inspiring others to embrace diversity, equity, and inclusion in their professional and community endeavours.

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• Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award

  Presented to the owner of a company that has been in business for at least 2 years and is 39 years of age or younger (as of Dec 31, 2025). This person exemplifies innovative business skills, proactive employee and customer relations, and community leadership.

  Sponsors

  

• Large Business Excellence Award (50+ Employees)

  Presented to a business that exhibits true business excellence. This business has advanced in economic and/or financial growth through sales/earnings and financial management. They excel in customer service, are a leader in employment creation, diversity and inclusion, seek to continuously improve employee relations, are prominently involved in community affairs and demonstrate a commitment to quality in their operations.

  Must be in business for more than 4 years. (prior to January 1, 2022)

  Sponsors

  

• Small Business Excellence Award (1 – 10 Employees)

  Presented to a business that exhibits true business excellence. This business has advanced in economic and/or financial growth through sales/earnings and financial management. They excel in customer service, are a leader in employment creation, diversity and inclusion, seek to continuously improve employee relations, are prominently involved in community affairs and demonstrate a commitment to quality in their operations.

  Must be in business for more than 4 years. (prior to January 1, 2022)

  Sponsors

  

• Medium Business Excellence Award (11 – 49 Employees)

  Presented to a business that exhibits true business excellence. This business has advanced in economic and/or financial growth through sales/earnings and financial management. They excel in customer service, are a leader in employment creation, diversity and inclusion, seek to continuously improve employee relations, are prominently involved in community affairs and demonstrate a commitment to quality in their operations.

  Must be in business for more than 4 years. (prior to January 1, 2022)

  Sponsors

  

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