We are proud to recognize the highest levels of achievement in the business community.
Business of the Year
Description
Business of the Year
Award Overview
The Business of the Year Award is the Chamber's highest honour, presented to a business that demonstrates overall excellence in all areas of operation and has made a meaningful, positive impact on the local economy and community. This award celebrates leadership, innovation, ethics, and sustained success.
Why This Award Matters
This award recognizes a business that stands out for consistent achievement, community leadership, and a commitment to long-term growth. These businesses are role models that help make Carleton Place & District a vibrant place to live and work.
Award Criteria
- Established Track Record: In operation for at least 5 years, demonstrates sustainable growth and long-term success
- Operational Excellence: Outstanding performance in service delivery, customer service, marketing, HR, and financial management
- Industry Leadership: Recognized as a leader by peers, upholds ethical practices, and strategic vision
- Community Impact: Actively supports community causes and demonstrates civic engagement
Submission Details
When completing the nomination form, please include:
- A summary of the business's growth, milestones, and operational achievements
- Examples of leadership and innovation within the industry
- Details on community involvement and local impact
- Demonstrated commitment to ethical business practices and team development
Criteria
| Criterion | Weight |
|---|---|
| About the Business | 40.0% |
| Corporate Citizenship | 30.0% |
| Testimonials and Awards | 20.0% |
| Member Directory Listing | 10.0% |
Community Impact
Description
Community Impact Award
Award Overview
The Community Impact Award honours a business that goes above and beyond its core operations to positively influence the Carleton Place & District community. These businesses make giving back part of their DNA.
Why This Award Matters
Recipients of this award lead with purpose, using their platform to uplift people, support causes, and create a more inclusive, connected, and caring community.
Award Criteria
- Ongoing commitment to meaningful community involvement
- Active participation in local events, initiatives, or partnerships
- Business culture rooted in inclusion, service, and leadership
- Demonstrable positive social, cultural, or environmental impact
Submission Details
Nominations should include examples of how the business engages with the community, partners with local organizations, or leads initiatives that enhance community well-being.
Criteria
| Criterion | Weight |
|---|---|
| About the Business | 40.0% |
| Corporate Citizenship | 30.0% |
| Testimonials and Awards | 20.0% |
| Member Directory Listing | 10.0% |
Solopreneur Award
Description
Solopreneur of the Year
Award Overview
The Solopreneur of the Year Award celebrates a single-owner business that operates without employees but makes a big impact through innovation, professionalism, and community engagement.
Why This Award Matters
Solopreneurs are the backbone of our small-business economy. This award recognizes their unique challenges and contributions—and honours those who lead with passion and purpose.
Award Criteria
- Business is owner-operated with no employees
- Demonstrates innovation, growth, and sound business practices
- Supports fellow businesses or the broader business community
- Actively contributes to local causes or initiatives
Submission Details
Nominations should provide examples of business achievements, collaboration with peers, and community involvement. Judges will assess leadership, innovation, and resilience based on the details provided.
Criteria
| Criterion | Weight |
|---|---|
| About the Business | 40.0% |
| Corporate Citizenship | 30.0% |
| Testimonials and Awards | 20.0% |
| Member Directory Listing | 10.0% |
Entrepreneur of the Year
Description
Entrepreneur of the Year
Award Overview
The Entrepreneur of the Year Award celebrates a visionary business leader who has built a successful enterprise through creativity, initiative, and perseverance. This award highlights businesses in operation for 1 to 5 years.
Why This Award Matters
Entrepreneurs create jobs, drive innovation, and reinvigorate the local economy. This award encourages future entrepreneurs and celebrates bold risk-takers who shape our region's business future.
Award Criteria
- Operating for at least 1 year and fewer than 5 years
- Demonstrates strong financial performance and growth
- Innovative in products, services, or operations
- Conducts business ethically and professionally
- Positively engaged in the local business community
Submission Details
Nominations should describe business milestones, innovations, challenges overcome, and community impact. Judges will assess the nominee's entrepreneurial journey, using only the information submitted.
Criteria
| Criterion | Weight |
|---|---|
| About the Business | 40.0% |
| Corporate Citizenship | 30.0% |
| Testimonials and Awards | 20.0% |
| Member Directory Listing | 10.0% |
Team/Employee of the Year
Description
Team or Employee of the Year
Award Overview
The Team or Employee of the Year Award celebrates individuals or workplace teams who consistently go above and beyond. They embody excellence, loyalty, and leadership, and make a significant contribution to their organization's success.
Why This Award Matters
Behind every great business is a great team. This award honours those who create a thriving workplace culture and exemplify professionalism, collaboration, and commitment.
Award Criteria
- Consistently delivers outstanding work and goes the extra mile
- Displays strong dedication, reliability, and team spirit
- Demonstrates leadership, innovation, or problem-solving skills
- Earns respect and admiration from peers and customers
Submission Details
Employers or peers may nominate a deserving employee or team. Submissions should include specific examples of accomplishments and their impact. Judges rely entirely on this information to evaluate nominees.
Criteria
| Criterion | Weight |
|---|---|
| About the Team/Employee | 50.0% |
| Community Achievements | 30.0% |
| Other Achievements | 20.0% |
