The Business Person of the Year award is presented to an individual in the business community who exemplifies excellent leadership qualities, innovative business skills, proactive employee and customer relations, and community leadership.

The Customer Service award is presented to a business that is committed to high standards of customer service. This company delivers exceptional service in their dealings with customers and educates and encourages their staff to improve and excel in matters of customer relations. This company also strives to improve the customer experience within their business through communications, problem solving and innovation.

Presented to a business or organization enriching the life of the community through a combination of public art, beautification, heritage, greening and environmental preservation. Environmental preservation strategies may include recycling, reduced dependency of energy, alternative/active transportation, contribution to the urban forest through demonstrated landscaping and/or “low impact” storm water management. Project to have been completed within the last 2 years. (January 2016-December 2018) 

The GameChanger is an individual or organization who introduces new offerings, breakthrough solutions or a revolutionary approach to enhance our lives and challenge the status quo. Through their collaborative efforts they inspire Thunder Bay leaders and businesses to think differently about how they serve their clients, employees and community.

The Looking Good award is presented to a business or organization that has completed renovations or restored a property or building that already exists within the last two years (January 2016-December 2017) and the improvements of the property have shown a positive impact on its surrounding community.

The New Business Excellence award is presented to a new locally-owned business that has been operating for at least two years but within four years and that has demonstrated innovation, vision, employment creation and business growth prospects.

The Not for Profit Excellence award is presented to the organization that exemplifies excellence and innovation in their programs, projects, and partnerships. Their commitment to growth and expanded programs, as well as service, community involvement, sustainable practices and/or job creation/development demonstrates a dedicated focus on achieving their vision and mandate.

The Quality of Life award is presented to a business or organization for outstanding contribution to the quality of life of a person, group or organization in our community.

Presented to the owner of a company that has been in business for at least 2 years and is 39 years of age or younger (as of Dec 31, 2018). This person exemplifies innovative business skills, proactive employee and customer relations, and community leadership.