On October 19 close to 200 community members came together to celebrate the Airdrie Chamber of Commerce 25th Annual Airdrie Business Awards Gala presented by EllisDon. 45 finalists were recognized as Airdrie’s best businesses, and it truly was an evening of celebration and support for our business community.
It is with terrible sadness we share the sudden passing of our valued chamber member and recent Airdrie Emerging Business Award winner, Jeremy Colwell, owner of Pure Light Style. Jeremy passed away in a motor vehicle accident on Thursday, October 19th before he could accept his award.
The Emerging Business Award is presented to a new business showing success and demonstrates a connection to the Airdrie community. Jeremy was very deserving of this award and was extremely honoured to be a finalist in this category. We know that he would have been both humbled and thrilled to receive his award yesterday evening.
Jeremy joined our chamber a year ago and was a staple at many of our events, always personable and eager to help and support others without expecting anything in return. He was making great connections, and his business was really taking off. We will miss him dearly and we give our sincere condolences to his family and friends.
The Business of the Year Award, sponsored by the Airdrie Economic Development, is given to a business that has been in business for at least 3 years, that best exhibits outstanding achievement in innovative practices, customer service, and growth, and actively participates in the community. This year’s recipient is Revival Therapeutics and Performance.
The Hugh Hamilton Business Leader Award, sponsored by MNP, is presented to an individual who has been operating a business for at least 3 years and has demonstrated exceptional leadership, business acumen, philanthropy, and commitment to the Airdrie business community. This year’s recipient is Glenn Smaha, Davis Chevrolet GMC Buick.
The Community Attraction Award, sponsored by Airdrie Music Lessons, is presented to a business that has been operating for at least 2 years and has major influence on attracting visitors and residents to engage in the community; making Airdrie a more attractive place to work, live, visit, and play. This year’s recipient is 948 Brewing Company.
The Employer Excellence Business Award, sponsored by Fortis Alberta, is presented to a business that goes above and beyond for their employees and provides the best overall place to work. The company values their employees’ development and retention on the same level that it values productivity and business growth. It places high levels of importance on corporate culture and a happy and healthy work environment for their staff. This year’s recipient is Elements Dance Co.
The Exemplary Service Award, sponsored by Chambers Plan, is presented to a business that has been operating for at least 2 years and provides excellent customer service experiences. The award will recognize a business that implements one or more major customer services initiatives. This year’s recipient is PMC Plumbing.
The Greatest Impact Award, sponsored by Airdrie Registry, is presented to a business that has been operating for at least 2 years and has had the largest impact in the community through philanthropy, volunteerism, and overall commitment to making Airdrie a great place to live and do business. This year’s recipient is Airdrie Puppy Pals.
The Innovation Award, sponsored by Vitreous Glass, is presented to a business that demonstrates exceptional and transformative innovation and leadership in their processes, products, or services. This year’s recipient is Revival Therapeutics and Performance.
The Legacy Business Award, sponsored by Sierra Springs Dental, is presented to a business that is independently owned and operated, has been in Airdrie for at least 10 years, has shown sustained growth and contributions to local employment. This business has invested in the community and sees community investment as a core part of the company’s values. This year’s recipient is Airdrie Music Lessons.
The Spirit of Airdrie Award, sponsored by Servus Credit Union, is presented to a non-profit that has been operating for at least 2 years and continuously serves and promotes Airdrie via specific programming, resources, assistance, and/or services they offer. The year’s recipient is the Airdrie Food Bank.
The Airdrie Chamber of Commerce was honored to host the 25th annual Airdrie Business Awards. “The evening was fabulous! The Airdrie Chamber of Commerce would like to congratulate all the finalists and winners and we would like to thank all the sponsors, chamber team, and our many volunteers for making the event possible.” Marilyne Aalhus, Executive Director.