Portage Chamber Introduces New Categories for Business Awards, Nominations Now Open

Portage Chamber Introduces New Categories for Business Awards, Nominations Now Open

Portage Chamber Introduces New Categories for Business Awards, Nominations Now Open

The Portage la Prairie & District Chamber of Commerce is shaking things up this year with the addition of three new award categories to its annual Best Business Awards Gala, set for November 6 at Prairie Fusion.

Now a signature event for the local business community, the gala has been running for over a decade. This year’s edition features four award categories, including the long-standing Outstanding Business of the Year and three new additions designed to better reflect the diversity and contributions of local enterprises.

Executive director Stefanie Dunn said the refresh is aimed at inclusivity. “We have such a diverse business community here, and we want to make sure we’re highlighting as many businesses as possible,” she said.

The flagship Outstanding Business of the Year award recognizes a business that demonstrates excellence, innovation and community impact—contributing meaningfully to the local economy and overall vitality.

The new Outstanding Commitment to the Community award is open to both for-profit and non-profit organizations, honouring those that demonstrate exceptional dedication to community development and well-being.

Another new category, Best in Skilled Trades, will celebrate excellence in trades such as plumbing, carpentry, mechanical and electrical work—highlighting the individuals and businesses helping to build and shape the community.

Perhaps the most interactive of the new categories is the People’s Choice Award, which will be decided by public vote. A nomination committee will shortlist the top three businesses, and the winner will be chosen through online voting on the Chamber’s website. “We’re really excited to give the community a chance to weigh in,” said Dunn. “It’s for the people, and they should feel like they’re part of the process.”

Nominations for all categories are now open and will remain so until the end of September. Anyone—not just Chamber members—can submit nominations online, along with contact details and a few brief examples supporting the nominee.

Dunn encourages residents to consider the businesses they interact with regularly. “Sometimes we overlook the everyday because we’re so used to it,” she said. “But consistency, quality, and reliability are exactly what make a business worthy of recognition.”

Source: Google News