SMALL BUSINESS AWARDS 2023
MattersPodcast|Storyteller
Innovate and Connect: Empowering Small Businesses for a Digital Tomorrow
June 7th, 2024
Metro Toronto Convention Centre, Toronto
OntheeveningofJune7th,2024,theMetroTorontoConventionCentre becamethebackdropforaneveningdedicatedtorecognizingand celebratingtheheartofCanada'seconomy thesmallbusiness sector,forthe5thAnnualCanadianSMESmallBusinessAwards
Perrin Beatty
Doug Ford
Tony Chapman
Natasha Walji PC,OC,CEOofCanadian ChamberofCommerce
ManagingDirectorat
CustomerSolutions
Host/Speaker|Chatterthat MattersPodcast|Storyteller
Teresa Noble PremierofOntario Manager,National Credit Compliance atFuturpreneur
CELEBRATING BUSINESS SUCCESS IN CANADA
Business events are carriers and torchbearers of innovative solutions and novel ways to conduct business and network In fact, such congregations are a perfect way to glean information about the prevailing tech and business trends, which is why you will always find astute experts in their respective fields –so that they can mentor budding entrepreneurs and business owners In congruence with this very concept, the CanadianSME recently hosted an annual business event that was well-received by the Canadian business community.
Thus, on the eve of June 7th, 2024, the Metro Toronto Convention Centre became the hot ground for an event dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the heart of Canada's small business sector in the 5th Annual CanadianSME Small Business Awards Sponsored by Google Canada, this prestigious event marked a milestone in celebrating the remarkable achievements of small business owners nationwide. Our visionary editor and founder of CanadianSME Small Business Magazine, SK Uddin, launched the ceremony hosted by the exceptionally talented Tony Chapman, creator and owner of the globally renowned podcast Chatter that Matters Together, they welcomed a diverse group of business luminaries, dignitaries, and entrepreneurs who gathered to honour the resilience and success of the Canadian SMB community.
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Allnomineeswillreceivean E-certificateofnomination
Tony Chapman
Host/Speaker | Chatter that Matters Podcast | Storyteller
The 5th Annual CanadianSME Small Business Awards was a memorable evening, brilliantly hosted by Tony Chapman, a marketing luminary and host of the acclaimed Chatter that Matters podcast Celebrating this year ' s theme, "Innovate and Connect: Empowering Small Businesses for a Digital Tomorrow," Tony guided us through an inspiring celebration of innovation and diversity in Canadas small business sector The event also honoured Pride Month, highlighting our ongoing commitment to inclusion and equality
Reflecting on the highlights of the 5th Annual CanadianSME Small Business Awards, the evening commenced with an esteemed introduction of SK Uddin, the founder and editor of CanadianSME Small Business Magazine. As the visionary behind this remarkable gathering, SK took the stage to deliver the opening remarks, setting the tone for a night dedicated to celebrating the spirit and achievements of Canada's small business community His words not only welcomed the distinguished guests but also underscored the importance of innovation and collaboration in driving business success SK's leadership and dedication to the small business sector were palpable, perfectly kicking off an event filled with inspiration and forward-thinking
Doug Ford remierofOntario
the 5th Annual CanadianSME Small Business wards, we were privileged to feature a virtual essage from Doug Ford, Premier of Ontario. As committed leader and accomplished usinessman, Premier Ford's dedication to public ervice is deeply rooted in his family’s legacy of erving Ontarians across generations Although e could not attend in person, his presence was rongly felt through his inspiring words
Perrin Beatty, PC, OC, CEO of Canadian Chamber of Commerce
In a moment of high honour and recognition, the 5th Annual CanadianSME Small Business Awards proudly presented the Lifetime Achievement Award to Perrin Beatty, PC, OC, CEO of the Canadian Chamber of Commerce This prestigious award was bestowed in tribute to Mr Beatty’s outstanding contributions and exemplary leadership, which have significantly shaped the business landscape in Canada
Although Mr Beatty could not attend the ceremony in person, the spirit of his achievements filled the room In a special moment that connected Mr Beatty with the gathered audience, a video was played in which he expressed his heartfelt gratitude and shared insights into his inspiring journey His message resonated deeply, highlighting his contributions' profound impact on current and future generations of entrepreneurs
Hon.Rechie Valdez
MinisterofSmallBusiness
The 5th Annual CanadianSME Small Business Awards was filled with enthusiasm with the presence of Minister Rechie Valdez, the Minister of Small Business for Canada and Member of Parliament for Mississauga Streetsville took the stage Renowned for her advocacy and entrepreneurial spirit, Minister Valdez has been a key figure in championing diversity within the Canadian business community Her presence was met with a resounding round of applause, underscoring the audience's respect and appreciation for her efforts to amplify diverse voices and foster a vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem
Certificates to Sponsors
During a special segment of the 5th Annual CanadianSME Small Business Awards, SK Uddin, the Founder of CanadianSME, and the Honorable Minister Rechie Valdez, Minister of Small Business, had the privilege of presenting certificates of appreciation to our esteemed partners. This ceremony recognized the invaluable support and commitment each partner has contributed to the success of the small business community in Canada.
Google, our esteemed presenting sponsor, was represented by Natasha Walji, Managing Director at Google. Ms Walji graciously accepted the certificate, underscoring Google's pivotal role in fostering digital innovation among Canadian SMEs
RBC, our exclusive banking partner, was represented by Don Ludlow, Vice President of Small Business, Business Financial Services Strategy, and Partnerships. Mr Ludlow came forward to receive the honour, highlighting RBC’s dedicated support of small businesses' financial growth and stability nationwide
Xero, our trusted accounting software partner, was also honoured during this segment. Soukaina Mkhanter, Senior Partnerships and Product Marketer at Xero celebrated their essential contributions to providing top-tier accounting solutions to small businesses.
Certificates to Sponsors
UPS, our exclusive shipping partner, saw Jennifer Kai, a Key Account Executive from Richmond Hill, step up to accept the accolade Her presence emphasized UPS Canada’s critical role in empowering SMEs through robust logistics solutions
IHG Business Edge, our hospitality partner, was represented by Tarandeep Singh, Regional VP—Commercial, Marketing & Revenue Management. Mr. Singh’s receipt of the certificate underscored IHG's role in enhancing hospitality experiences for the business community
Constant Contact, recognized as our email partner, was represented by Scott Cunningham, Vice President International. Mr Cunningham's acceptance of the certificate highlighted the importance of effective communication strategies facilitated by Constant Contact for growing businesses.
HP, our category sponsor, was represented by Kristin Zibert, Channel Director, Personal Systems at HP Canada. Ms Ziber proudly accepted the certificate, celebrating HP’s commitment to providing cutting-edge technological solutions to the SME sector.
2023 CanadianSME National Business Awards Judging
Pane
Stephan
Tony Chapman
Host/Speaker|ChatterthatMattersPodcast|Storyteller
At the 5th Annual CanadianSME Small Business Awards, we were thrilled to introduce the Champions of Small Business Hall of Fame, recognizing individuals who have significantly shaped our industry through creativity, commitment, and impact. This year ' s honorees included Arlene Dickinson, a pioneering entrepreneur known for her role on Dragons’ Den, and Tony Chapman, a renowned communications expert and marketing strategist. While Arlene could not attend, her presence was powerfully felt through a video message in which she shared her inspiring journey and expressed her gratitude, profoundly resonating with all present. Tony Chapman was honoured on stage, receiving his accolade from the Honorable Rechie Valdez, highlighting an evening celebrating exceptional leadership and innovation in the Canadian business sector.
Keynote by Natasha Walji ManagingDirectoratGoogleCanada forGoogleCustomerSolutions
We had the distinct pleasure of welcoming Natasha Walji, Managing Director at Google Canada for Google Customer Solutions, to the stage In her keynote speech titled “Put Google to Work for You,” Natasha offered invaluable insights into leveraging AI-powered solutions to foster growth and innovation within small and medium-sized businesses
Recognized as one of Canada's Top 100 Most Powerful Women, Natasha Walji's presence and keynote at the awards ceremony were inspiring and highlighted, providing attendees with practical strategies and a vision for harnessing technology to drive their businesses forward
The 5th Annual CanadianSME Small Business Awards also witnessed the Suubi Music and Dance Troupe from Cambridge Secondary School treating attendees to a special performance The word "Suubi" translates to 'hope' in Luganda, aptly describing the essence of this troupe Founded by Mrs Kevin Kalule, Suubi offers a dynamic platform for young Ugandan performers to express their stories and experiences through vibrant African music and dance mediums Their performance not only showcased their cultural heritage but also highlighted themes of healing and resilience, resonating deeply with the audience and adding a unique and inspirational dimension to the evening
Hon. Nina Tangri
AssociateMinisterofSmallBusiness-Ontario
The 5th Annual CanadianSME Small Business Awards was especially graced with the pleasure of hearing from Nina Tangri, Ontario’s Associate Minister of Small Business. Elected in 2018, Minister Tangri brings an impressive three-and-a-half-decades of business experience to her role. Her passion for nurturing vibrant communities and bolstering Ontario's entrepreneurs was palpable in her remarks The audience welcomed her to the stage with enthusiastic applause, clearly resonating with her vision and dedication to enhancing the business landscape in Ontario Her presence and insights greatly enriched the event, providing inspiration and direction for the future
"Our
vision is to empower Canadian Small and Medium Enterprises"
SK - Founder, CanadianSME
Certificates to Judges
As a matter of fact, the 5th Annual CanadianSME National Business Awards honoured the dedication and expertise of our esteemed judges, who played a pivotal role in evaluating the numerous nominations Their commitment to identifying and celebrating excellence within the Canadian small business community was commemorated with a special presentation of certificates of appreciation
The certificates, signed by the Honorable Minister Rechie Valdez, Minister of Small Business, were presented at a ceremony featuring prominent figures, including Hon Nina Tangri, Associate Minister of Small Business for Ontario Esteemed recipients included Monica Rehal on behalf of Chantal Mackenzie from Canada Protection Plan, Stephanie Louis for Brianna Solberg from CFIB, Laura Williams of Williams HR Law, A.J. Stewart from Canada's 2SLGBTQI+ Chamber of Commerce (CGLCC), Kree Govender of Microsoft Canada, Miki Velemirovich, a prominent B2B Marketing strategist, Teresa Noble, Manager, National Credit Compliance at Futurpreneur, and Sam Kohli for Ritu Kohli-Sethi from Greater Toronto Executive Centre (GTEC) This acknowledgment served not only as a thank you but also as a testament to the high standards upheld by the panel, ensuring the continued growth and recognition of outstanding small businesses across Canada
A.J. Stewart
OperationsManagerForSupplier DiversityatCanadas2SLGBTQI+ ChamberofCommerce(CGLCC)
Teresa Noble
Manager,NationalCredit ComplianceatFuturpreneur
Kree Govender
SMBAreaLead atMicrosoftCanada
Laura Williams
FounderandPrinciple ofWilliamsHRLaw
Certificates to Judges
Jennifer Kai
Tarandeep
Singh
Scott Cunningham VicePresidentInternational,ConstantContact
Kristin Zibert
Editor’s Choice Awards 2023
The Editor's Choice Award ceremony stood out as a significant highlight Presented by our editor, SK, alongside Hon Nina Tangri, Associate Minister of Small Business, the awards recognized exceptional contributions to communities, industries, and the Canadian economy. The recipients, chosen after meticulous consideration by the editorial panel, included leaders and organizations demonstrating outstanding leadership and commitment to driving positive change within their sectors
Among the honoured were the Toronto Business Development Centre (TBDC) team, Claudia Krywiak of the Ontario Centre of Innovation, and David Kwok from YSpace, each celebrated for pioneering entrepreneurship and innovation efforts While Sevrine Labelle's inspiring message was shared via video due to her absence, inperson accolades were graciously received by Tabatha Bull of the Canadian Council for Aboriginal Business, Claudio Rojas from the National Angel Capital Organization Canada, and Tiffany Callender, a co-founder of FACE
Additionally, the Women’s Enterprise Organizations of Canada and Melanie Gaboriault from Visier were recognized for their roles in enhancing business opportunities for diverse groups across Canada, each adding their unique voice to the narrative of success and innovation celebrated that evening
David Kwok
Tabatha Bull
Tiffany Callender
Visier Inc.
Best in AI & Automation Award 2023 Modern Requirements
Women’s Enterprise Organizations of Canada
Modern Requirements was celebrated with the Best in AI & Automation Award at the CanadianSME National Business Awards 2023 for their innovative contributions to requirements management Their state-of-the-art software has redefined efficiency in project development within Azure DevOps, automating essential processes and significantly enhancing productivity across both cloud and on-prem environments The award was presented by our esteemed editor, SK Uddin, who acknowledged Modern Requirements for setting new industry standards
Claudio Rojas CEOofNACOCanada
RBC Small Business of the Year 2023 (Up to 10 employees
The 5th Annual CanadianSME National Business Awards also shed a spotlight on the "Small Business of the Year - Up to 10 Employees" category, proudly sponsored by RBC Don Ludlow Vice President at RBC, presented the awards, celebrating businesses that exemplify exceptional growth and community impact Roo & You Inc clinched the top spot with its robust approach to business health across monetary, performance, and ethical dimensions. They were followed by W Design Co., noted for its impre revenue growth an expansion, and DR Fitness+Dance, wh grown from a sing a community corn across multiple loc for a Cause rounde winners, recognize significant contribu discount wholesale serving a broad ne businesses and no
TOP 1 Winner - Roo & You Inc
TOP 2 Winner - W Design Co. & DREALEE | Fitness+Dance
TOP 3 Winner - Kits for a Cause
Constant Contact Sma Business of the Year (50+ Employees)
The Small Business of the Year 50+ Employees category, sponsored by Constant showcased outstanding scale small businesses Cunningham, Vice Presid International at Constan proudly presented the a First place was awarded which was recognized fo essential services in aid immigrants and new Ca MYcourier Inc , celebrate enhancing the eComme experience with superior Delivery services, followe second place. Kaizen He took third place and was for its comprehensive he services to improve pati being These companies commitment to excellen innovation in their respe fields, contributing signif their communities and in
TOP 1 Winner - COSTI Immigrant Services
TOP 2 Winner - Mycourier Inc.
TOP 3 Winner - Kaizen Health Group
UPS
Small Business of the Year up to 50 employees
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TOP 1 Winner - Nexim Healthcare Consultants Inc
TOP 2 Winner - The Scented Market
TOP 3 Winner - Vision Project Services
Indigenous Entrepreneur of the Year Award 2023
Jenn Harper
FounderandCEO, CheekboneBeautyCosmeticsInc
The Indigenous Entrepreneur of the Year award, graciously sponsored by Xero, was presented by Soukaina Mkhanter, Senior Partnerships + Product Marketer at Xero
This year, the award celebrated Jenn Harper, founder and CEO of Cheekbone Beauty Cosmetics Inc , for her outstanding contributions Jenn has skillfully combined her entrepreneurial drive with a strong mission to support Indigenous communities, establishing a successful brand that not only excels in the cosmetics industry but also promotes significant social impact Her commitment to sustainability and community empowerment is a beacon of inspirational leadership
Black Entrepreneur of the Year Award 2023
Hazel Lord
Founder&ManagementConsultantofPearlOperationalDesignInc
The Indigenous Entrepreneur of the Year award, graciously sponsored by Xero, was presented by Soukaina Mkhanter, Senior Partnerships + Product Marketer at Xero This year, the award celebrated Jenn Harper, founder and CEO of Cheekbone Beauty Cosmetics Inc , for her outstanding contributions Jenn has skillfully combined her entrepreneurial drive with a strong mission to support Indigenous communities, establishing a successful brand that not only excels in the cosmetics industry but also promotes significant social impact Her commitment to sustainability and community empowerment is a beacon of inspirational leadership
Tech Business of the Year 2023
Pathway Communications
The Tech Business of the Year Award, sponsored by Samsung, was a standout category at the ceremony, spotlighting businesses that skillfully leverage technology to advance their operations presented by SK, the award honored Pathway Communications for their exceptional impact in the tech sector With over 28 years of expertise, Pathway has demonstrated a customer-centric approach, providing robust, tailored IT solutions that not only meet but anticipate the needs of their clients, ensuring their position as a leader in technology innovation
Diversity and Inclusion Award 2023
Pride at Work Canada/Fierté au travail Canada
The Diversity and Inclusion Award, sponsored by IHG Business Edge, was a ceremony highlight emphasizing the importance of creating inclusive workplaces. Tarandeep Singh, Regional VP – Commercial, Marketing & Revenue Management from IHG Canada, had the honour of presenting this prestigious award This year, the accolade went to Pride at Work Canada, also known as Fierté au travail Canada, based in Tkarón/Toronto This impactful organization is at the forefront of championing workplace inclusivity, particularly focusing on the TwoSpirit and LGBTQIA+ communities, while also respecting the land and acknowledging its original keepers Their efforts exemplify the commitment to diversity and inclusion that this award seeks to recognize
Customer Service Excellence Award 2023
Customer Service Excellence Award 2023
The Customer Service Excellence Aw was a competitive category, spotlighting companies that have g above and beyond in serving their clients Leading the honours was Fullintel, who was celebrated for exceptional punctuality in delive crucial media insights to clients morning Harbinger Network Inc followed, which was recognized commitment to sustainable hirin practices that significantly enha quality of customer service Fou Avenue Medical Aesthetics was applauded for setting new benc in follow-up care and patient education within the medical aesthetics industry. The award w gracefully presented by Kree Go a Senior Leader at Microsoft, wh commended the winner exemplary dedication to service excellence
TOP 1 Winner - Fullintel
TOP 2 Winner - Harbinger Network Inc.
Startup Business of the Year 2023
Blue Door Agency
The Startup Business of the Year award, a crucial ceremony component, highlights new companies' vibrant energy and innovation.
Entrepreneur of the Year 2023
James Nguyen Co-Founder&CEO,QuantropiInc
Presented by Sam Kohli, Managing Partner at Greater Toronto Executive Centre (GTEC), this award celebrates a startup that has made significant inroads in its industry This year, the honour went to Blue Door Agency, a firm that was launched in partnership with some of Toronto's top restaurateurs They have swiftly established themselves as a cornerstone in digital marketing and public relations within the hospitality sector, setting a high standard for effectiveness and creativity in their campaigns
Blue Door Agency’s rapid ascent underscores the dynamic potential of startup businesses to transform their industries
The CanadianSME National Business Awards ceremony ’ s centrepiece was the Entrepreneur of the Year award, honouring outstanding leadership and innovation in business This prestigious award was presented to James Nguyen, Co-Founder and CEO of Quantropi Inc , by Miki Velemirovich, a noted expert in B2B marketing James has distinguished himself through a remarkable combination of technological prowess and a deep commitment to community enrichment Under his leadership, Quantropi has achieved significant milestones in quantum-safe cybersecurity, securing global recognition for its cutting-edge solutions This award celebrates James’s visionary approach and his impactful contributions to advancing technology and community initiatives
CSR Excellence Award 2023
Future Kitchen & Bath Ltd (MOBEL)
Excellence in Data Privacy & Cyber Security - 2023
INKAS® Payments
The CSR Excellence Award spotlighted companies leading in corporate social responsibility. This year, the award was proudly presented to Future Kitchen & Bath Ltd, operating under the brand möbel, for their exemplary commitment to sustainable production practices and timeless cabinetry design Möbel has successfully combined aesthetic appeal with durability, ensuring their products enhance homes and sustainably for years to come The award was presented by Miki Velemirovich, a prominent figure in B2B marketing, who commended möbel for their dedication to setting new benchmarks in sustainability and design within the industry
The Excellence in Data Privacy & Cyber Security Award was a significant highlight, celebrating top-tier achievements in the field. INKAS® Payments received this distinguished honour, recognized for their comprehensive and rigorous tiered security strategy that spans all departments This approach exemplifies their unwavering dedication to safeguarding client data and maintaining trust The award was aptly presented by Ryan Sydor, Area Vice President at Okta, who commended INKAS® Payments for their exemplary practices in cyber security
Young Entrepreneur of the Year 2023
Lacey Koughan FounderandCEOat24STRONG YouthEmpowermentInc
2SLGBTQI+ Inclusive Excellence Award 2023
QueerTech
Lacey Koughan, Founder and CEO of 24STRONG Youth Empowerment Inc , was celebrated as the Young Entrepreneur of the Year Lacey's entrepreneurial journey, which started when she was just 16 with her own dance studio, showcases her remarkable leadership and vision Her numerous accolades, including the 2023 Rising Entrepreneur recognition, highlight her significant impact on youth empowerment The award was presented by Norman Musengimana, Business Development Manager at Kingston Economic Development Corporation, who praised Lacey for her dedication and innovative approach to inspiring young minds
The spotlight shone brightly on QueerTech, the esteemed recipient of the 2SLGBTQI+ Inclusive Excellence Award Recognized for their trailblazing initiatives in promoting inclusivity within the tech industry, QueerTech has been instrumental in breaking down barriers and enhancing community connections for 2SLGBTQ+ individuals Their dedicated efforts have played a crucial role in ensuring that queer members are not only included but also flourish in the technology sector The award was proudly presented by A J Stewart, Operations Manager for Supplier Diversity at Canada's 2SLGBTQI+ Chamber of Commerce (CGLCC), who applauded QueerTech for their commitment to transformative work and leadership in fostering a more inclusive tech community.
Inspirational Leader of the Year 2023
Margarita Simkin
ChairwomanatINKAS®SafeManufacturing
Best in Health and Wellness Business Award 2023
St. Francis Herb Farm
Margarita Simkin, Chairwoman at INKAS® Safe Manufacturing, was honoured with the Inspirational Leader of the Year award(the award was accepted by one of their executives as Margarita was not present in the awards) Recognized for her profound leadership and innovative vision, Margarita has played a pivotal role in elevating INKAS® to global prominence, continually setting new industry benchmarks with pioneering solutions Kree Govender, Senior Leader at Microsoft, presented the award and commended Margarita for her relentless dedication and transformative impact on the industry.
St Francis Herb Farm was awarded the Best in Health and Wellness Business Award, a testament to their enduring impact on the natural health industry For over thirty years, St Francis Herb Farm has been at the forefront of herbal craftsmanship, utilizing their Holistic Herb Approach™ to develop products that maximize the therapeutic properties of plants This commitment to natural health has significantly enhanced the well-being of countless individuals, making them a leader in their field
Business Woman of the Year 2023
Tracy Sicard Co-Founder&HeadOfCustomerExperience atTuesdayAfternoonMedia
E-commerce Business of the Year 2023
Healthy Planet
Tracy Sicard, CEO and Owner of TuesdayAfternoon Media (TAM) Media, was honoured with the Business Woman of the Year Award at the CanadianSME National Business Awards 2023 Under Tracy's leadership, TAM Media has excelled in creating transformative learning solutions, leveraging a talented team of over 40 professionals to set benchmarks in communication and innovation The award was presented by Lindsay Stewart, Communications & Engagement Manager at WEOC / OEFC, who praised Tracy's commitment to excellence and her pioneering approach to educational media Tracy's dedication to developing thoughtful, impactful messaging has profoundly influenced the industry, making her a standout leader and deserving of this prestigious accolade
Healthy Planet was proudly recognized as the E-commerce Business of the Year at the CanadianSME National Business Awards 2023 Their exemplary efforts in making a wide range of health and wellness products easily accessible to customers across Ontario have set a high standard for customer service and community health initiatives The award was graciously announced by Monica Rehal, Regional Vice President of Sales at Canada Protection Plan, a Foresters Financial Company, who commended Healthy Planet for their unwavering commitment to enhancing accessibility and enriching customer experiences Since the team of Healthy Planet was not present at the ceremony, Tony Chapman accepted the award on their behalf
Fastest Growing Company of the Year 2023
Sparkle & Sheen Organize And Cleaning Services Ltd.hy Planet
Immigrant Entrepreneur Of The Year 2023
Tracy Sicard Co-Founder&HeadOfCustomerExperience atTuesdayAfternoonMedia
Sparkle & Sheen Organize and Cleaning Services Ltd. was celebrated with the Fastest Growing Company of the Year Award at the CanadianSME National Business Awards 2023 This innovative company has redefined the boundaries of the cleaning services industry by integrating valueadded services such as grocery delivery and companionship This approach has deeply impacted their clients' lives and boosted local employment Christine Macdonald, Director of Business Development at Mitacs, presented the award, lauding the company for its exceptional growth and innovative business model
Healthy Planet was proudly recognized as the E-commerce Business of the Year at the CanadianSME National Business Awards 2023
Their exemplary efforts in making a wide range of health and wellness products easily accessible to customers across Ontario have set a high standard for customer service and community health initiatives The award was graciously announced by Monica Rehal, Regional Vice President of Sales at Canada Protection Plan, a Foresters Financial Company, who commended Healthy Planet for their unwavering commitment to enhancing accessibility and enriching customer experiences Since the team of Healthy Planet was not present at the ceremony, Tony Chapman accepted the award on their behalf
Best Business Innovation Award 2023
Samos
Best Professional Services Award 2023
Samos Insurance Solutions was honoured with the Best Business Innovation of the Year 2023 award at the CanadianSME National Business Awards, a testament to their revolutionary impact on the insurance industry. Claudia Krywiak, President & CEO at Ontario Centre of Innovation, presented the award, celebrating Samos Insurance's innovative approach to enhancing financial security Their pioneering insurance products are designed to provide peace of mind during life’s crucial moments, simplifying access to vital financial protections and democratizing security for all
Sapling Financial Consultants Inc was recognized as the Best Professional Services firm at the CanadianSME National Business Awards 2023, distinguishing itself through exemplary financial consulting services. This prestigious accolade was presented by Laura Williams, Founder and Principal at Williams HR Law LLP, who commended Sapling Financial for their commitment to excellence and innovation in the financial sector Their dedication to delivering high-quality advice and solutions clearly sets them apart in the professional services industry
Sustainable Business Award 2023
Community Impact Award 2023
Fill it Forward proudly received The Sustainable Business Award at the CanadianSME National Business Awards 2023, recognizing its innovative approach to blending technology with ecofriendly practices Its steadfast commitment to reducing single-use waste and promoting global sustainability sets a remarkable example for businesses everywhere. This prestigious award was presented by the Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA), underscoring the significance of sustainable development in today’s corporate world Fill it Forward
Drewlo Holdings was honoured with the Community Impact Award at the CanadianSME National Business Awards 2023, recognizing their exceptional contributions to building vibrant communities Beyond offering high-quality rental properties, Drewlo Holdings creates welcoming living environments through excellent space management and proactive tenant engagement. Their efforts significantly enhance neighbourhood cohesion and set a high standard in property management Stephanie Louis, Vice-President Partnerships at the Canadian Federation of Independent Business, presented this notable award, celebrating Drewlo Holdings' commitment to fostering community spirit
Digital Business of the Year Award 2023
Page Pros
Best in Retail Award 2023
Page Pros Inc proudly clinched the Digital Business of the Year Award at the CanadianSME National Business Awards 2023, marking a significant milestone in their journey This dynamic company has shown remarkable success through hard work and dedication, especially in their sales team's achievements, reflecting the transformative impact of providing optimal opportunities The award was presented by Daniel Lunghi, Vice President - Public Sector Canada at Ricoh Canada Inc , who commended Page Pros for their innovative approach and significant contributions to the digital landscape
Kevito Group was honoured with the Best in Retail Award at the CanadianSME National Business Awards 2023, celebrating their outstanding innovation in the Quick-Serve Restaurant sector As pioneers, Kevito Group has significantly transformed the dining landscape with its Asian-inspired culinary brands, setting new industry standards through their dynamic approach to food service The award was graciously presented by Christie Rall, Partner, Workforce Transformation at Mercer, who applauded Kevito Group’s commitment to excellence and innovation in the retail sector
Best in Manufacturing Award 2023
Media Resources
Technopreneur of the Year 2023
David Gens Founder&CEO,MerchantGrowth
Media Resources Inc was distinguished with the Best in Manufacturing Award at the CanadianSME National Business Awards 2023, recognizing their transformation from Grant Signs into a leader in visual communication solutions across North America Their largeformat printing, 3D fabrication, and LED digital manufacturing expertise has consistently elevated industry standards within the signage and display sectors The award was presented by Tony Chapman, who commended Media Resources for their innovative techniques and commitment to excellence in manufacturing
One of the standout moments came during the Technopreneur of the Year announcement This category honours entrepreneurs who skillfully leverage technology to transform their industries and create opportunities for substantial growth This award celebrates business success and the innovative spirit that propels industries forward
Managing Director of Google Canada Natasha Walji proudly took to the stage to reveal the winner of this prestigious award David Gens, Founder and CEO of Merchant Growth, was honoured as this year ' s recipient From the humble beginnings of launching his business from his apartment, David has become a key player in Canadian business financing, helping numerous small companies succeed His journey is a testament to the fact that great ideas and impactful innovations can emerge from the simplest starts.
Small Business Success
TheCanadianSMENationalBusinessAwardsistheperfectstage foryoutostandoutandshinewithyouraccomplishmentsin thebusinessworld.Itisaplacewhereallyourhardwork, passion,dedication,anddeterminationarerecognizedbefore everyoneintheworld.Furthermore,itistheperfectopportunity tomaterializeyouroutreachcampaignsbyattractingmore probableclients,employees,andpartners.
