The best of the best has once again been singled out and selected for the Altona & District Chamber of Commerce annual awards.
The Business Excellence Award for companies with eleven (11) employees or more is proudly awarded to Bunge.
The Altona plant, which originally began as a farmer cooperative in 1946, has a rich history rooted in sunflower processing. Acquired by Bunge in 2002, the plant has since expanded its operations to include the processing of sunflowers, soybeans, flax, and canola. Driven by a mission to connect farmers with producers, Bunge plays a pivotal role in delivering essential food and feed products to communities. As one of Altona’s leading employers, Bunge provides opportunities for personal growth and skills development to over 100 dedicated employees. Their commitment extends beyond business, with a deep investment in the community. Through generous donations to more than 25 organizations, totaling over $32,000, Bunge demonstrates its unwavering support. Notably, the company contributes over 5,000 liters of edible oil annually to local food banks, making a tangible impact on those in need.
The Business Excellence Award for businesses with ten (10) employees or fewer is proudly presented to Page Print.
A cornerstone of the Altona community, Page Print provides vital printing services to local businesses, organizations, and individuals who need fast, high-quality results. With cutting-edge printing technology and over 29 years of experience, Page Print delivers exceptional print solutions—right here in Altona, so there's no need to go anywhere else. Barry, the driving force behind Page Print, is renowned for his unmatched efficiency and customer service. His unwavering commitment to his clients ensures that every project is executed with precision and care. Barry’s invaluable contributions play a crucial role in keeping Altona’s businesses running smoothly and efficiently, making him an essential part of the local economy.
The Entrepreneur of the Year Award is proudly presented to Nicole Wood, the visionary owner of Two Sparrows Greenhouse.
Since opening its doors in May 2023, Two Sparrows has quickly become a beloved resource for the Altona community and beyond, offering a wide selection of annuals, vegetables, herbs, seeds, perennials, trees, and shrubs. The business has experienced remarkable growth, with the fall of 2023 marking the start of a new phase—doubling their growing space with state-of-the-art gutter-connected greenhouses. This expansion led to an impressive increase in traffic and sales during their second season in 2024. Nicole takes immense pride in her dedicated staff and the vibrant, positive work culture they’ve created. Their passion shines through in everything they do, creating an atmosphere that’s as welcoming as it is productive. Customers feel the difference as soon as they step into the greenhouse—a light, cheerful environment where hard work meets genuine enthusiasm. Two Sparrows Greenhouse is deeply committed to connecting with the community, regularly hosting school field trips, personal after-hours tours for Regional Connections, and groups from Buffalo Apartments. They’re also excited to welcome moms and tots from the Altona Area Resource Centre in the near future, making it clear that Nicole’s commitment to both her business and her community knows no bounds.
The Non-Profit of the Year Award is proudly presented to the Kiddie Sunshine Centre Inc.
Serving the Altona community since 1983, Kiddie Sunshine Centre is a licensed childcare provider dedicated to offering exceptional nursery school services at two locations. Renowned for its unwavering commitment to the growth and development of children, this outstanding non-profit organization provides a safe, nurturing environment that emphasizes early childhood education. The dedicated staff and volunteers at Kiddie Sunshine Centre go above and beyond, ensuring that every child receives individualized care and attention. Their work helps lay the foundation for a bright future, equipping children with the skills they need to succeed. With a recent expansion, Kiddie Sunshine Centre has greatly increased its capacity, enabling them to serve even more families in Altona and the surrounding area. This expansion not only allows them to meet the growing demand for high-quality early childhood education but also opens up new spaces and programs, giving more children the opportunity to thrive in a supportive, enriching environment. Furthermore, by providing accessible childcare, the centre plays a crucial role in enabling parents to re-enter the workforce, contributing to the economic vitality of the region.
Recipients will be presented their awards at the Chamber's annual gala, happening Thursday, April 24th. Limited tickets are available and can be reserved ahead of time here or by calling 204-324-9549.
Providing the entertainment for the evening is The Killer Keys, an unforgettable dueling pianos experience with Piano Matty B, the crypto YouTuber, and the 'handsome and charismatic' Kyle Mac. With their infectious energy, you can expect plenty of singalongs, clever medleys, and a chance to relive the iconic anthems of some of the greatest decades in music history.
With files from the Altona & District Chamber of Commerce