40th Annual Business Excellence Awards
Celebrating Greater Vernon's Business Success
Innovators, entrepreneurs, leaders, and champions were celebrated during the Greater Vernon Chamber of Commerce’s 40th annual Business Excellence Awards gala on October 24.
Awards were presented in 19 categories.
“The Business Excellence Awards are a testament to the commitment, hard work, and strength that businesses and non-profits demonstrate daily. We congratulate the winners and all the nominees—your accomplishments truly elevate the North Okanagan,” said Kirndeep Nahal, Greater Vernon Chamber president.
Winners & Nominees
Large Business of the Year
Award sponsored by MNP
Nominees:
| Nixon Wenger LLP |
| Okanagan Spring Brewery |
| Vantage One Credit Union |
Winner: Nixon Wenger LLP
Large Business of the Year- Nixon Wenger LLP is a full-service law firm in Vernon, known for offering competitive compensation packages that prioritize work-life balance, recognition, and rewards, resulting in high employee retention. Operating as a closely-knit team, they provide personalized service, such as visiting sick clients at home to complete matters. Their exceptional community support spans from sponsoring sports teams to assisting non-profits and charities across the North Okanagan.
Honourable mentions go to:
- Okanagan Spring Brewery
- Vantage One Credit Union
Employer of the Year
Award sponsored by City of Vernon
Nominees:
| Canadian Mental Health Association |
| Cherkowski Marsden LLP |
| COBS Bread |
| Nixon Wenger LLP |
| Okanagan Spring Brewery |
| Orchard Valley Retirement Residence |
Winner: Orchard Valley Retirement Residence
Employer of the Year Award – Orchard Valley Retirement Residence excels in fostering a healthy work-life balance through initiatives and robust benefits, including complimentary meals, spot awards, and manager-in-training opportunities. Their commitment to diversity, inclusion, and open communication is supported by practicum placements, team-building efforts, and employee feedback programs - creating a collaborative and supportive work environment.
Honourable mentions go to:
- Nixon Wenger LLP
- COBS Bread
Medium Business of the Year
Award sponsored by Fox Plumbing Heating Cooling Electrical
Nominees:
| Browns Transport |
| COBS Bread |
| Iron Heart Gym |
| Okanagan Valley College of Massage Therapy |
| Rusty Spur Farm, Feed & Pet |
Winner: Iron Heart Gym
Medium Business of the Year – Iron Heart Gym takes an innovative and novel approach to their industry, backed by excellent customer service that drives their success. With a strong focus on supporting local business and a personalized membership model, they continue to innovate in both programming and equipment to deliver exceptional value.
Honourable Mentions go to:
- Rusty Spur, Farm, Feed & Pet
- Okanagan Valley College of Massage Therapy
Young Entrepreneur of the Year
Award Sponsored by Nixon Wenger LLP
Nominees:
| Dan Todosychuk - North OKGN Construction |
| Eden Drzimotta - LaFlor Studio |
| Gracen Kossowan - Neon Daisy |
| Jeremy Alexander - Evolve Digital Solutions |
| Josh Strother - Monashee Garage Doors |
| Nicole Mittelstaedt - Turn Clean |
| Paul Kenward - PKSnow Media |
| Samantha Sewell - Raising Stars Preschool |
| Shafiya Razick - Shaf's Kitchenette |
Winner: Josh Strother, Monashee Garage Doors
Young Entrepreneur of the Year – Josh Strother, Monashee Garage Doors showcases a remarkable work ethic and a relentless ability to persevere, overcoming significant challenges to achieve success. Their dedication to a customer-focused approach has been key in building a thriving business, despite facing adversity. The result is a testament to their resilience and commitment to excellence.
Honourable Mentions go to
- Dan Todosychuk - North OKGN Construction
- Samantha Sewell - Raising Stars Preschool
Small Business of the Year
Award sponsored by Community Futures North Okanagan
Nominees:
| Argos Home Inspection |
| Bean Scene Coffeehouse |
| Best in Show on the Go - Mobile Dog Grooming |
| Braden Kipp - Physiotherapist |
| Coldstream Living Magazine |
| Fill - Vernon's Refill Store |
| Graphic Enterprises |
| Handyman Vernon BC |
| Kasper Denture Clinic |
| North Okanagan Apparel |
| North Okanagan Skin & Laser |
| Okanagan Rhythmic Gymnastics |
| Olive Us Oil & Vinegar Tasting Room |
| Planet Bee Honey Farm |
| Qualicare Home Care |
| Roost Solar |
| Spiritleaf Vernon |
| Sun City Auto Parts |
| Tailored Closet |
| Touch of Elegance Studio & Training |
| Transition Marketing Services |
| Wedge Cheesery |
Winner: Fill - Vernon's Refill Store
Small Business of the Year – Fill – Vernon’s Refill Store stands out with its unique product niche and environmentally responsible business model. Known for exceptional marketing and a strong community presence in both Business-to-business and retail sectors, they are deeply committed to the local community and environment, led by an inspiring female entrepreneur achieving remarkable success.
Honourable Mentions go to:
- Olive Us, Olive Oil & Vinegar Tasting Room
- Braden Kipp - Physiotherapist
Business Leader of the Year
Award sponsored by TD Benefits
Nominees:
| Alison Ludditt - The Room Collection |
| Braden Robertson - Braden Robertson Construction |
| Heather Lastik - COBS Bread |
| Julia Payson - Canadian Mental Health Association |
| Lynella Henke - Vernon Teach and Learn |
| Ted Fox - Fox Plumbing Heating Cooling Electrical |
| Teresa Sanders - FILL, Vernon's Refill Store |
| Vicki Topping - MQN Architects |
Winner: Lynella Henke
With 30 years of experience, Lynella has become a leader in delivering exceptional customer service while continually adapting to new trends. Their outstanding leadership and mentorship have shaped the careers of many, and their commitment to giving back to the community sets them apart as a true role model.
Honourable Mentions go to:
- Alison Ludditt, The Room Collection
- Heather Lastik, COBS Bread
Diversity Excellence
Award sponsored by Kal Tire
Nominees:
| Canadian Mental Health Association |
| Interactive Counselling |
| Turning Points Collaborative |
| Vernon Community Arts Centre |
Winner: Vernon Community Arts Centre
Diversity Excellence Award – Vernon Community Arts Centre has demonstrated progressive hiring practices by partnering with local organizations to find diverse talent, and for their commitment to forming strong partnerships and presence with local non-profits that serve a diversity of ages and abilities. They offer excellent cultural training opportunities for staff, and a great youth mentorship program.
Honourable Mentions go to:
- Turning Points Collaborative
- The Georgette Shop
Retail Business of the Year
Award sponsored by Downtown Vernon Association
Nominees:
| Innerspace Watersports |
| Olive Us Oil & Vinegar Tasting Room |
| The Georgette Shop |
| The Room Collection |
| Vernon Teach and Learn |
Winner: The Room Collection
Retail Busines of the Year – The Room Collection with a strong sense of community support, spirit and pride, they feature creative displays, and personalized stock catering to our local market and style. They exhibit a strong team environment, as well as community involvement, sponsorship and engagement.
Honourable Mentions go to:
- The Georgette Shop
- Vernon Teach & Learn
Non-Profit Excellence
Award sponsored by Community Foundation North Okanagan
Nominees:
| All Are Family Outreach Society |
| Allan Brooks Nature Centre |
| Arts Council of the North Okanagan |
| Forever Home Sanctuary |
| Fresh Outlook Foundation |
| Funtastic Sports Society |
| Greater Vernon Museum and Archives |
| Halina Activity Centre |
| Okanagan Village Housing Society |
| Royal Canadian Legion Branch 25 Vernon |
| Vernon Winter Carnival |
Winner: Forever Home Sanctuary
Non-profit Excellence – Forever Home Sanctuary offers healing space not only for animals but also for people affected with mental illness challenges. They have a dedicated team of volunteers and great community support, allowing them to offer cutting edge therapeutic programs and a holistic approach. They have future visions of expansion of services and awareness.
Honourable Mentions go to:
- Okanagan Village Housing Society
- Arts Council of the North Okanagan
Customer Service Excellence
Award sponsored by Kelowna International Airport
Nominees:
| Bean to Cup |
| Braden Kipp - Physiotherapist |
| Budget Blinds |
| COBS Bread |
| Hawg Pitt Motorcycles Full Service Shop |
| Interactive Counselling |
| Kal Tire Anderson Way |
| Kasper Denture Clinic |
| KT Fairglass |
| Okanagan Spring Brewery |
| Olive Us Oil & Vinegar Tasting Room |
| Organizing Chaos by Design |
| Painted Ladies Vernon |
| Spiritleaf Vernon |
| Touch of Elegance Studio & Training |
Winner: KT Fairglass
Customer Service Excellence – KT Fairglass is committed to business improvement and staff education, this company brings years of service to the community while embracing innovation. No customer is too small, and they consistently go above and beyond to meet client needs, driven by continuous analysis of customer feedback.
Honourable Mentions go to
- Braden Kipp – Physiotherapist
- COBS Bread
Trades Business of the Year
Award sponsored by Scotiabank
Nominees:
| Fox Plumbing Heating Cooling Electrical |
| Hey, It's Dave! Professional Painting Services |
| Keith Dahlen Construction |
| Roost Solar |
| T&B Electric |
Winner: Roost Solar
Trades Business of the Year – Roost Solar is the only NABCEP-certified solar PV installer in the Thompson-Okanagan. As a result of their attentiveness to safety and their custom software, featuring the Roost Energy Dashboard, they receive a high rate of referral and repeat business.
Honourable Mentions:
- Keith Construction
- Hey! It’s Dave Professional Painting Services
Tourism Excellence
Award sponsored by Tourism Vernon
Nominees:
| Allen Brooks Nature Centre |
| Planet Bee Honey Farm |
| Quality Inn and Suites |
| Quilakwa RV & Campground |
| SilverStar Mountain Resort |
Winner: Quality Inn & Suites Vernon
Tourism Excellence Award – Quality Inn & Suites Vernon is Green Key Certified and has demonstrated a commitment to eco-friendly practices and sustainability. They have promoted Vernon to their guests recommending restaurants and gyms locally, and have worked to promote Vernon on a larger stage, by establishing partnerships and hosting tour groups from around the world, and in 2023 they hosted evacuees from the West Kelowna wildfires.
Honourable Mentions go to:
- Planet Bee
- Silver Star Mountain Resort
Restaurant of the Year
Award sponsored by Okanagan Spring Brewery
Nominees:
| Bourbon Street Bar & Grill |
| Masiero Pizzeria Napoletana |
| Pheonix Steakhouse |
| Range Restaurant, Bar & Patio |
Winner: Bourbon Street Bar & Grill
Restaurant of the Year – Bourbon Street Bar & Grill has successfully adapted to the local market and demographic, establishing itself as a popular live music venue. Known for its high standard of customer service, the versatile cooking staff offers a diverse menu that caters to a wide range of tastes. They are also dedicated to giving back through apprenticeship programs and community fundraisers, showing a strong commitment to charity work.
Honourable Mentions go to
- Range Restaurant Bar & Patio
- Masiero Pizzaria & Napoletana
Professional Business of the Year
Award sponsored by TD Bank
Nominees:
| Aberdeen Painting & Decorating |
| Braden Kipp - Physiotherapist |
| Interactive Counselling |
| Kasper Denture Clinic |
| Lesia Design & Digital |
| MQN Architects |
Winner: Lesia Design & Digital
Professional Business of the Year – Lesia Design & Digital This woman-owned business stands out for its ethical focus and commitment to supporting non-profits and charities. As one of the few companies in Canada recognized as a Squarespace expert, they maintain high standards of integrity and transparency. Balancing work-life priorities with a human-centered approach to AI, they ensure their clients receive honest and ethical solutions.
Honourable Mentions go to
- MQN Architects
- Braden Kipp - Physiotherapist
New Business of the Year
Award sponsored by Tolko Industries
Nominees:
| Alpine Holistic Health |
| Cedar & Soak |
| BX-Foothills Living Magazine |
| Connect & Play Counselling & Consulting |
| Errands and Beyond |
| Green Guard Eco-Scapes |
| Noble Yoga |
| Obsidian Games |
| Oopsie Daisy Flowers |
| Petawatts Auto Marine RV |
| Phreeagent Creative |
| Raising Stars Preschool |
| Sage Dental Hygiene |
| Silver Star Animal Care Clinic |
| Sky's the Limit Health |
| The Perch Winery |
| Vernon Custom Garage |
| Yankee Flats Meats |
Winner: Noble Yoga
New Business of the Year – Noble Yoga is driven by a strong sense of community, this entrepreneur actively builds partnerships with social service providers. With a passion for her business and a love for the community, she brings energy and drive to her successful small business. Savvy in marketing, she knows how to keep her business visible and relevant locally.
Honourable Mentions go to
- Yankee Flats Meats
- Sage Dental Hygiene
*New* Agri-Business Excellence
Award sponsored by Armstrong Regional Coop
Nominees:
| Landing Nursery |
| Pan Prairie Farms |
| Vegpro International (Fresh Attitude) |
Winner: VegPro International
Agri-Business Excellence – VegPro International is being recognized for their focus on sustainability and minimizing their environmental impact while leading the way in eco-conscious farming practices, water management, and their commitment to recycle or reuse almost everything. They have also worked hard to establish strong local supply chains.
Honourable Mentions:
- Landing Nursery
- Pan Prairie Farms
People's Choice Award
Award sponsored by Total Restoration Services
Winners: Cedar & Soak
Non-Profit: Halina Activity Centre
A huge congratulations to Cedar & Soak and the Halina Activity Centre for being named the winners of the prestigious People’s Choice Award! Your dedication to the community and the outstanding services you provide have truly earned you this well-deserved recognition.
Chamber Champion Award
Award sponsored by the Greater Vernon Chamber of Commerce
Winner: Kal Tire
This company has been a steadfast supporter of the Greater Vernon area, backing numerous events, sports, and initiatives. Typically, they step aside from awards to keep the focus on giving rather than receiving recognition. However, with the Chamber Champion Award, they had no choice in being nominated—so we’re excited to take this opportunity to celebrate them for their incredible contributions!
Photo credit: Peter Solymosi
Thank You Sponsors
