The Greater Westside Board of Trade is excited to announce the launch of nominations for the 25th annual Key Business Awards presented by Coast Capital.
The awards recognize excellence among business and non-profit organizations throughout the Greater Westside. Businesses and non-profits can be nominated in 15 separate categories between September 8 and October 5. Those nominated will then take part in an interview with our independent judges to continue to the next stage of the process.
The finalists in each category will be announced at at celebration lunch on January 28, 2027.
The Awards will be announced at the Dinner event on February 25. 2027.
A business only needs to be nominated once to qualify per category and past winners from the previous three years are ineligible to win in the same category.
The Geoffrey Paynter Citizen of the Year Award recognizes an individual who has demonstrated outstanding leadership, dedication and service to the Greater Westside. The recipient has made a meaningful and positive impact on the community through voluntary contributions, achievements and ongoing involvement in West Kelowna or Westbank First Nation.
The BBB Torch Award for Ethics honours businesses and organizations that stand out for their commitment to trustworthy, ethical business practices. Their leaders demonstrate a high level of personal character, ensure that the organization’s practices meet the highest standards of ethics and build relationships based on trust with customers and the community. Judges will select the winner based on how well the nomination explains the company’s ethical business practices including it’s character (value-driven leadership & communications); culture (commitment to trustworthy business practices); customer service (strive for excellence, transparency & honesty); and community engagement (contributions to the greater community).
Created to recognize businesses and organizations that successfully implement environmentally sustainable practices as part of their overall business plan. The award aims to further educate business owners about the benefits of integrating green strategies in their business and activities that reduce energy and materials consumption and/or eliminates waste and pollution.
A business that provides consistent service excellence, exceptional staff and/or products that go above and beyond customer expectations to achieve that ultimate customer event. The business establishes trust by keeping clients well informed, offering proactive service and a positive, enjoyable experience.
A large business more than 16 employees, the nominee has demonstrated excellence in quality, value, innovative marketing and customer service. This business is proactive in market trends, provides a variety of products, stands behind its products and services, demonstrates a good value for the price and establishes good relationships with its customers.
A small business with less than 15 employees, the nominee has demonstrated excellence in quality, value, innovative marketing and customer service. This business is proactive in market trends, provides a variety of products, stands behind its products and services, demonstrates a good value for the price and establishes good relationships with its customers.
This nominee is under 35 years of age and has demonstrated innovation through the establishment of a new business, product or idea or has introduced new concepts or strategies within an existing organization. They have developed a solid business plan that has led to individual and business success, including marketing and promotional strategies, product research, customer commitment, employee relations and community involvement.
Honors a new business (2 years or less from the date of incorporation or first day of operation) 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.
An Indigenous business that exemplifies entrepreneurship and demonstrates outstanding contribution to the ideals and vision of Indigenous people. The Indigenous owner must have a 51% or better share in the business.
An individual, group or non-profit organization whose participation in the community has significantly benefited others. The nominee has contributed by giving back to the community with time, product, donations and/or support.
An individual, business, organization or a particular event that contributes to a vibrant community by celebrating arts, culture and/or heritage. Awarded for originality, ingenuity, and resourcefulness within the creative sector (music, dance, visual art, literature, decorative and applied Art).
The Technology and Innovation Award recognizes a business that develops advanced or innovative technologies to meet the needs of industry. This business contributes to making the Greater Westside a strong and rapidly growing innovation economy, and is creating a positive impact in their industry and community.
A business, organization, or individual(s) that: supports the tourism and hospitality industries and actively encourages the growth of the Greater Westside as a must-see destination. The nominee offers and/or promotes an outstanding visitor experience and increases the visibility of the Greater Westside.
This award is presented to a business operating from home for more than 1 year, that has gained a positive reputation and demonstrates excellence in innovation management, marketing, customer service and integrity. Business must have a valid business license on the Greater Westside.
Join us in celebrating the outstanding businesses of the Greater Westside.
