In October, 45 finalists were recognized as the region’s best businesses at the Airdrie Regional Chamber of Commerce 26th Annual Airdrie Regional Business Awards Gala, presented by EllisDon.
The Emerging Business Award, sponsored by The Pest Control Guy, is presented to a business that has been operating for less than two years, showing success and demonstrates a connection to the community. This year’s recipient is Bump, Birth & Beyond.
The Community Attraction Award, sponsored by Servus Credit Union, is presented to a business that has been operating for at least two years and has major influence on attracting visitors and residents to engage in the community, making it a more attractive place to work, live, visit and play. This year’s recipient is ¡Glitch! Gaming Lounge.
The Community Spirit Award, sponsored by Vitreous Glass, is presented to a non-profit that has been operating for at least two years and continuously serves and promotes Airdrie and region via specific programming, resources, assistance and/or services it offers. The year’s recipient is the Airdrie P.O.W.E.R.
The Employer Excellence Business Award, sponsored by Fortis Alberta, is presented to a business that goes above and beyond for its employees and provides the best overall place to work. This year’s recipient is Carmen A. Vetian Professional Corp.
The Exemplary Service Award, sponsored by CrossIron Mills, is presented to a business that has been operating for at least two years and provides excellent customer service. This year’s recipient is Tires On The Run.
The Greatest Impact Award, sponsored by MNP, 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 it a great place to live and do business. This year’s recipient is Ambition Performing Arts.
The Innovation Award, sponsored by Melcor, is presented to a business that demonstrates exceptional and transformative innovation and leadership in their processes, products, or services. This year’s recipient is Vintage Apothecary.
The Legacy Business Award, sponsored by McKee Homes, is presented to a business that is independently owned and operated, has been operating in the Airdrie region for at least ten years, has shown sustained growth and contributions to local employment. This year’s recipient is Airdrie Family Eye Doctors.
The Business of the Year Award, sponsored by Airdrie Economic Development, is presented to a business that has been operating for at least three years, that best exhibits outstanding achievement in customer service, growth, and community involvement. This year’s recipient is Airdrie Springs Dental.
The Hugh Hamilton Business Leader Award, sponsored by Airdrie Registry, is presented to an individual who has been operating a business for at least three years and has demonstrated exceptional leadership, business acumen, philanthropy, and commitment to the Airdrie regional business community. This year’s recipient is Darcy Forbes, Vitreous Glass.
In his speech, Forbes recognized his mentor and business partner, Pat Cashion, who was the first recipient of this award in 2009.
“Pat taught me many things, including how important investments are. Now this isn’t in the classic sense of investing capital, which is important, but I’m referring to investments in your team and your community, and the abundant returns a business sees from these investments.
I was a much younger man when I started at Vitreous, working as a millwright and Pat invested in me, and he always invested in the community.
In terms of the community, where you operate is essential to the business, so it only makes sense to support your community in any way possible. This may be donating to the local non-profits or volunteering your time at organizations or sports teams. If a business is able, support those that support you.”
