2023 Comox Valley Chamber Award Recipients
Since 1974, the Comox Valley Chamber Awards has recognized the accomplishments of businesses, organizations, and individuals who have contributed greatly to make the Comox Valley an amazing community. Award categories have been added and retired, expanded and revisited, but the Chamber Awards have always been about excellence and service.
Through our grassroots nomination process, we could not be more proud of the caliber of nominations submitted by community businesses and individuals. With so many quality and community minded nominees to be recognized, our judging panel had a most challenging role this year when narrowing down our finalists.
Winners were announced at our “GO for the Gold!” themed CV Chamber Awards Gala on Saturday, January 27, 2024. The dinner and awards ceremony hosted community members who were invited to dress in their finest shimmery and sparkly attire. The evening included a 40 Knots Champagne Reception, Gladstone Brewing Bar, a Custom Gourmet catered dinner and dessert buffet all while being entertained with the evening's Awards presentation.
Additionally, we hosted an online charity auction to benefit The Comox Valley Food Bank. At the close of bidding, our Executive Director, Tracey Clarke presented the organization with a $4,407 cheque, the total proceeds from the auction.
The Comox Valley Chamber of Commerce (CVCC) is so pleased to announce our 2023 Chamber Award recipients:
#you rock Award
Sponsored by NIC School of Business
A youth leadership award showcasing leadership, ingenuity and initiative through contributions to the community.
BENOIT VAILLANT
Young Entrepreneur Award
Sponsored by Wedler Engineering LLP
An award highlighting remarkable business success, community involvement and community commitment before the age of 30.
JORIE GOUGH REAL ESTATE
Sustainability Award
Sponsored by Berwick Retirement Community
An award recognizing environmental sustainability and social responsibility being successfully practiced benefiting the community and the environment.
HABITAT FOR HUMANITY VANCOUVER ISLAND NORTH
Business Leadership Award
Sponsored by Coastal Community Credit Union
Honours an individual who inspires, contributes and serves as a positive role model in the community.
BERT HEERINGA
Customer Service Award
Sponsored by Robbins & Company
An award recognizing one who exemplifies excellence in customer service.
ON THE FLY CAFE
Diversity & Inclusion Award
Sponsored by The Immigrant Welcome Centre & Welcoming Communities Coalition & Creative Employment Access Centre
Recognizes best practices in attracting a diverse work force and creating an inclusive environment through accessibility, engagement and inclusion.
EDWARD & PARNELL BARBER SHOPPE
Family First Award
Sponsored by 98.9 Jet FM
Honours a business that creates a culture supporting and caring for employee's work/life balance, parental needs and demonstrating support for local children's initiatives.
THERMO TEC MECHANICAL
Heritage Recognition Award
Sponsored by Waypoint Insurance
Honours a business that has contributed significantly to the community for at least 25 years.
EDIBLE ISLAND WHOLE FOODS MARKET
Innovative Business Award
Sponsored by Comox Valley Airport
Honours a business that demonstrates advancement in business through technology innovation and/or development.
BROKEN SQUIRREL WELLNESS
Not For Profit Organization Award
Sponsored by the Comox Valley Chamber
Honours an organization that demonstrates outstanding contributions to the community.
L'ARCHE COMOX VALLEY
Lifetime Achievement Award
Sponsored By Canadian Tire Courtenay
An award recognizing an individual for their outstanding service in the Comox Valley.
KEN GRANT
New Business of the Year Award
Sponsored By Grant Thornton LLP
Honours a new business making outstanding community contributions with potential for continued growth.
GERRITSEN BROOKS APPRAISALS
Small Business of the Year Award
Sponsored By IG Wealth Management - Lawrence Bailey CFP
Honours a well-established, small business with outstanding community contributions and achievements.
CHRISSIE BOWKER PROJECTS
Business of the Year Award
Sponsored By MNP LLP
An Award recognizing a community-minded business demonstrating outstanding contributions with reputation and achievements to match.
40 KNOTS WINERY
President's Merit Award
Sponsored by North Island College Foundation
KAREN MCKINNON
CONGRATULATIONS... to all of this year's amazing winners. Find a full write up and photos of our recipients in the Comox Valley Record's January 31st, special features insert.
We would also like to thank all of our 2023 Event Sponsors, who support and make this special celebration possible including First Credit Union, 97.3 the Eagle, Comox Valley Record, 40 Knots Winery, The Rink of Dreams Framing, Gladstone Brewing, Above & Beyond Entertainment and Mackenzie Gartside & Associates.
For more information on the Awards and nominations process please visit our Comox Valley Chamber Awards main page.
