The Business Excellence Awards have been celebrating the best of Richmond business community since 1977. These organizations are the innovative leaders and driving force behind Richmond’s vibrant economy.
In 2024, we are excited to announce that we have expanded from ten to eleven categories with the addition of the new Outstanding Service Award. Approximately 14,000 businesses are licensed in Richmond – this year, 33 nominees will get a chance to advance to the finalist stage with 11 recognized as award recipients.
The Business Excellence Awards are the most important event of the Richmond business calendar. Richmond’s outstanding businesses (from large corporations to solopreneurs) are recognized at a gala event (virtual or in-person as restrictions allow), celebrated in media and throughout the Chamber’s network for the rest of the year.
Nominations Now Open!
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Testimonials
"Participation in the Richmond Chamber of Commerce has proven to be an excellent way to connect with, contribute to, and learn from the Richmond business community. As a young business professional myself, the Chamber of Commerce has directly impacted my growth and success at Novex. This is largely due to the hardworking staff who put on numerous events and are always available to offer their support to members."
Brett Surgenor, Brand Manager - Novex Delivery Solutions
Business Excellence Award Categories
OUTSTANDING SERVICE AWARD ~ NEW!
This award recognizes a local business who consistently provides exceptional service that exceeds customer expectations. Nominees for this award demonstrate an unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction, employ innovative strategies to meet customer needs, and contribute positively to the community's reputation for outstanding service.
SMALL BUSINESS OF THE YEAR
Honours a business with 1 – 10 full time employees that demonstrates continual growth, excellence, and leadership, operating with integrity and passion while being committed to the wellbeing of its employees and the broader community. This award recognizes financial success, community engagement, and a superior business model, regardless of the business size.
MID-SIZE BUSINESS OF THE YEAR
Honours a business with 11 – 50 full time employees that demonstrates continual growth, excellence, and leadership, operating with integrity and passion while being committed to the wellbeing of its employees and the broader community. This award recognizes financial success, community engagement, and a superior business model, regardless of the business size.
LARGE BUSINESS OF THE YEAR
Honours a noteworthy enterprise with more than 50 full time employees that demonstrates continual growth, excellence, and leadership, operating with integrity and passion while being committed to the wellbeing of its employees and the broader community. This award recognizes financial success, community engagement, and a superior business model, regardless of the business size.
BUSINESS LEADERSHIP OF THE YEAR
Honours a business that demonstrates sound business practices, leadership in their industry, and a positive impact on the Richmond community. The business provides inspiration and acts as a role model for other businesses in employment and industry standards.
OUTSTANDING WORKPLACE OF THE YEAR
Honours a business that excels while demonstrating a commitment to the physical, intellectual, and emotional support of employees through the work environment, benefits, vacation and paid time off, performance management, training and skills development, and community involvement.
NEW BUSINESS OF THE YEAR
Honours a newly founded, independent business that is achieving outstanding business performance in a short period of time, demonstrates exceptional promise for continued growth and serves as an inspiration for other new businesses. The business must be 3 years or less from the date of incorporation or the first day of operation.
INNOVATIVE ENTERPRISE OF THE YEAR
Honours a business that demonstrates the use of innovation to create a significant positive impact on society. The business displays vision in the development and launching of new technologies, products and/or services and demonstrates the ability to take risks.
YOUNG ENTREPRENEUR OF THE YEAR
Honours an entrepreneur under the age of 40 who excels in business, exemplifies leadership and entrepreneurial skills and demonstrates exceptional vision that contributes to business success.
GREEN BUSINESS OF THE YEAR
Honours a Business that demonstrates success and leadership with their Sustainable Business Practices and positive impact on the environment within the community of Richmond.
ASSOCIATION OF THE YEAR
Honours an incorporated, not-for-profit, society that demonstrates organizational leadership and measurable success, as defined by the organization, in achieving its mandate.