Business Excellence Awards
Spotlighting Business Achievements in Central York!
The Central York Chamber Business Excellence Awards (BEAs) recognize businesses whose achievements or community involvement have made significant contributions to the economic and social well-being of the Central York area.
See Award Categories and Criteria below. Nominations open until May 12th, 2025.
Award Categories and Criteria
This award pays tribute to an individual making a positive contribution in the community. Someone who is consistently lifting others up–the friendly cashier who always has a kind word for everyone, the volunteer who goes above and beyond, the work teammate whose positivity continually inspires others.
Recognizes an organization or individual who has exhibited the successful introduction of an idea, process or initiative that has been proven to make a genuine difference or positive impact on an organization or the community.
Recognizes a registered Not for Profit organization which demonstrates innovations and/or outstanding achievements in all or some of the following:
- Has exceptional community service and leadership
- Innovative services
- Community Involvement
- Promoting Volunteerism
- Positive contribution to Society
- Social and Community awareness
- Solid business foundation
- In operation in the Community for at least 3 years.
This business must exemplify professionalism and integrity. This category includes, but is not limited to law, medical, dental, accounting, financial, insurance, real estate and other professional service providers. Recognizes outstanding achievement is some or all of the following:
- Company growth
- Customer service
- Market development
- Sales & marketing
- Community service
- Must be in business for at least 3 years
Recognizes an individual (owner or employee) who demonstrates innovations and/or outstanding achievements in all or some of the following:
- A history of business success
- Leadership in business or profession
- Community involvement (civic pride)
- Creative business initiatives
- Recognized as a good employer
- Professionalism and integrity
Recognizes a business in the hospitality environment (eg, Hotels, Banquet Halls, Golf Courses, Restaurants (food service), Entertainment Facilities). They demonstrate commitment to excellence in some or all the following:
- Customer service
- Quality and consistency of products/service
- Marketing & Promotion
- Community Involvement
- Employee Relations & Training
- Innovation
This award recognizes a company in the skilled trades sector that demonstrates outstanding leadership and acts as an ambassador to increase the sustainability and promotion of skilled trades, fostering an inclusive environment and addressing equity in the industry. The business promotes careers and skilled trades education to diverse audiences (e.g. electrician, plumber, carpenter, HVAC technician, Salons, Contractors).
Recognizes a business that demonstrates a consistent adherence to excellent business practices necessary to deliver the highest quality service and support to their clients/customers. This entity executes best practices in all areas of their operation to ensure maximization of their capabilities and capacity. They demonstrate a commitment to the ongoing education, skills development, or professional accreditation of its employees. The nominee shows a high level of care and concern for the community. Qualifying organizations include, but are not limited to: Retirement Homes, Health Centres, Wellness Centres, Yoga Studios, RMT, Fitness Studios, Chiropractor, Naturopath and Dental Offices, etc.
Recognizes a company whose community investments have generated significant social benefits. This recognition highlights:
- Community Responsibility: Demonstrated accountability to the community through company policies and actions.
- Long-Term Dedication: Initiatives that show sustained dedication to enhancing the quality of life in the community.
- Social Impact: Projects or practices that bring measurable advantages.
Recognizes a local business that has demonstrated achievement in the agricultural or horticultural business sector.
This award will be presented to a business/individual within the local agricultural community who shows leadership and outstanding achievement within their sector. They demonstrate commitment to excellence in some or all the following:
- Creates innovative solutions that promote agriculture in the community.
- Development of new market opportunities
- Demonstrates excellence within the sector
Benefits of being Nominated
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A boost to your corporate reputation
A valuable perk for your PR, marketing, recruitment and retention efforts and client relations
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Positive media exposure
Locally, regionally and even nationally – and other enhanced publicity.
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Heightened morale across your organization
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Networking opportunities
Significant networking opportunities with other successful entrepreneurs, program sponsors, judges and Central York Chamber of Commerce members.
Eligibility/Nominations Criteria
- Central York Chamber Members
- Any other active business located in Newmarket and East Gwillimbury
- More than one business can be nominated, and self-nominations are encouraged
- Businesses that are nominated in more than one category will be judged in the most appropriate category
- No government agencies may be nominated
- Award recipients from the last three years are not eligible (eg. If won in 2021 the business is eligible again in 2025) for all categories
What Is The Selection Process?
Nominees in each category will be contacted by email and sent a questionnaire to complete and return to qualify. The community judges will then vote in categories assigned to them individually using a judging grid. Finalists will be selected in some of categories and the winner will be announced at the awards gala.