A new awards program has been launched to recognize the outstanding achievements of small businesses in Cochrane and surrounding area.
The Cochrane & District Chamber of Commerce unveiled the inaugural Business Excellence Awards this week, calling on residents to help celebrate the entrepreneurs, innovators, and community leaders who drive the local economy.
The awards build on the momentum of the recent “Find it in Cochrane. Shop local.” campaign and aim to highlight the vital role small businesses play in the community.
“It is with great pride and excitement that we launch the Business Excellence Awards,” said Chamber president Dwayne LaMontange in a news release. “This initiative is a celebration of the innovation, resilience and outstanding contributions of our local businesses.”
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The program has been created with the support of Community Futures Centre West, Explore Cochrane, Cochrane Business Network, Innovate Cochrane and the Town of Cochrane.
Nominations are now open in 12 categories:
- Business of the Year
- Tourism and Community Attraction Award
- Community Champion Award
- Emerging Business Award
- Employer Excellence Award
- Customer Service Excellence Award
- Greatest Impact Award
- Innovation Award
- Newcomer Entrepreneur Award
- Indigenous Entrepreneurship Award
- People’s Choice Award
Residents have until July 31 to nominate businesses. Details and nomination forms are available at cochranechamber.ca/business-excellence-awards-2025.
The celebration will culminate in a community gala during Small Business Week in October.