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Gala Update
As you know the power outage forced us to cancel our 2025 Awards of Excellence Gala for the Saturday, April 5th. We have had to search availability of dozens of other locations and make sure our many partners and suppliers were all able to make the new date. We are excited to be able to announce the new location is Globus Theatre. They are a Chamber member and are able to accommodate all our needs and they have been wonderful to deal with and are bending over backwards to make sure we can produce an even better gala experience than what we had planned.
New Date & New Venue
Saturday, April 26th is the new date for the Lindsay & District Chamber of Commerce 2025 Awards of Excellence Gala at Globus Theatre.
We of course apologize if this date change will cause any of you to not be able to attend, especially any of the finalists.
If you purchased a ticket and now due to the date change you cannot attend we ask that you do one of the following;
1/ Give your spot to another business person, friend, staff member etc. This will help your local Chamber as this is a Chamber fundraiser and we will have the people at the event for the silent auction and 50/50 to benefit the local United Way. Simply email us ed@lindsaychamber.com or call us 705-324-2393 and tell us your name and who will be replacing you and we will put them on the guest list. If that substitute ends up winning the $8000+ Mega Media door prize then they can pass that on to your business, non profit or charitable group if you request.
2/ We will reimburse you fully. To be reimbursed you must notify us no later than Thursday, April 17th at 4 pm as we need to order the food and other arrangements based on numbers. Reach out to ed@lindsaychamber.com or call us 705-324-2393 with your credit card number.
Need Tickets?
Now that a new date has been announced we appreciate that some people who wanted to attend the previous date and could not may wish to purchase tickets for this new date. Thus, we will be opening up another small block of tickets for the gala for one week (until April 17th) starting today. These limited tickets will go fast so act quickly.
We are currently working on a bus service that will leave from Lindsay and heading to Globus Theatre and then returning to Lindsay at different intervals during the night so stay tuned for that. A small fee for that service may be announced. We will provide more details next week on this service.
We tried to avoid the Fenelon Falls Country Living Show but due to securing a suitable space sooner than later while also honoring contracts and juggling a host of service providers we have no other date available.
Thank you everyone for your patience and understanding. The storm has impacted all of us in one way or another and I believe we need this time to come together and celebrate our resilience and community, local business and the people behind them and Canada.
Questions? contact Terry at ed@lindsaychamber.com or 705-324-2393
See you at the gala.
Facts about the awards.
1. You do NOT need to be a Lindsay & District Chamber Member to be nominated or to nominate. You MUST have your business in the Lindsay & District area to be nominated. If your business is outside the Lindsay & District area and you ARE a Lindsay & District Chamber of Commerce member you may be nominated or self nominate. This is about celebrating business excellence and Chamber's are designed to do just that. This is why we encourage non-Chamber members in the nomination process. This also encourages businesses to join our Chamber.
2. Self nominations are welcomed and encouraged. Many of our nominations are from the businesses themselves or friends and family. An equal amount come from clients, employees and customers.
3. You may be nominated in more than one category. Why not tell your friends and customers ALL the categories you may qualify for.
4. Each year we select a different group of Judges. They are anonymous and a mix of community leaders in the Kawarthas as well as Chamber staff from other Chambers of Commerce.
Nomination process: Download the nomination form, or if you are nominating in multiple categories, download all pertinent forms. You can nominate as many businesses/individuals as you like. You can also pick up hard copies of the nominations at our Lindsay & District Chamber of Commerce office located at 180 Kent St. W. Lindsay. Once completed you can either email them to us at ed@lindsaychamber.com or drop them off at our office. Deadline to complete the and return the nominations are February 21, 2025 by 5 pm.
Want to sponsor the 2025 Awards Gala? Check out our sponsorship package link below.
Award Categories- Chamber Awards 2025
Arts & Culture Excellence Award
Celebrates an individual, organization or event in the arts community (music, theater, dance or visual arts). This award acknowledges an individual, organization or event that contributes or has contributed to the cultural vibrancy of our community. The efforts of this entity contribute to opportunities, experiences and awareness of artistic talent in Kawartha Lakes.
Nomination considerations include, but are not limited to: leadership in the arts, innovators, supporters, artists, performers, galleries, studios, events, venues, and more.
Download Nomination Form-Arts & Culture AwardBoard Member of the Year (Volunteer)
This award goes to someone who has been pinnacle to the success of an organization in their role as a volunteer board member. The person has given many years of service to the organization or a combination of organizations. They have shown exceptional leadership and time commitment to the organization. The board member is well liked and respected by their fellow board members and represents the organization in the most positive way.
Download Nomination Form-Board Member AwardBusiness Leader of the Year
Celebrates a resident who through leadership and corporate curiosity has contributed to the economic wellbeing of Lindsay and District, by improving its community profile. This award acknowledges someone who has, through their actions, shown exemplary leadership and community spirit, visibly contributing to the improvement of community profile.
Nomination considerations include, but are not limited to: visionary leadership, quality workmanship, professional mannerism and exemplary customer service in business and the community, dedication and commitment to business endeavors, team spirit and inspiration to building a business culture.
Download Nomination Form-Business Leader of the YearCitizen of the Year
Celebrates a special resident (or honorary resident) of Lindsay and District who has contributed to the community in a manner above and beyond, in a volunteer capacity. This award acknowledges the contribution made and ultimate benefits to the community. This individual has shown special efforts and has had a notable impact, which resonates within the community.
Nomination considerations include, but are not limited to: must be18 years of age or older, demonstration of a lasting and meaningful volunteer contribution outside the bounds of paid employment, evident community pride, giving in nature, with no expectation in return, acts in the best interest of the community, a community leader.
Download Nomination Form- Citizen of the YearCustomer Service Excellence Award
Celebrates exemplary customer service, customer retention or customer relationship management. The award acknowledges a business, independent retailer, franchise or dealer of goods or services in any industry that is committed to best customer service practices. This business is reputed for being customer centric and the efforts stand out clearly and contribute to our community offering.
Nomination considerations include, but are not limited to: storefront or interior appeal, presentation of products, quality of selection and service, customer conveniences, guarantees and warranties, overall approach to service, telephone manner, complaint resolution, reception area comfort, staff professionalism, product knowledge, attention to customer need, reputation, and more.
Download Nomination Form- Customer Service AwardDiversity & Inclusion Award
This award will honour a business operating in the City of Kawartha Lakes that has demonstrated exceptional leadership skills, innovation, efforts and/or commitment to increase equality, diversity, and inclusion in: The workplace(s) for its employees, Customer service, The community as a whole. This award is intended to recognize effective and sustained efforts. However, special acts or one-time achievements may be considered. Nomination considerations include but are not limited to business facility enhancement, consideration of surroundings, accessibility of design, and more. Testimonials are strongly encouraged (maximum 5).
Download Nomination Form-Diversity & Inclusion AwardDesign Excellence Award
The Design Excellence Award recognizes the business or organization in the community that demonstrates the greatest contribution to the commercial viability of the community through construction, renovation or development.
Nomination considerations include, but are not limited to: business facility enhancement, consideration of surroundings, accessibility of design, and more.
Download Nomination Form-Design Excellence AwardEmployee of the Year
Criteria: Great employees are the backbone of a successful business. This award recognizes a standout employee who goes above and beyond for the business. The employee of the year should be someone who provided exceptional service, increased sales or received great reviews and comments from customers. This employee stood out in improving the image of the business both within the business and in the community. The employee is highly regarded by other staff members, the customers and the management or owners of the business.
Download Nomination Form-Employee of the YearEmployer of the Year Award
Celebrates a business or organization in any industry renowned for its commitment to its employees. This award acknowledges a business or organization that provides an exceptional workplace. The efforts of this entity enhance job and career opportunities.
Nomination considerations include, but are not limited to: positive work environment, career growth path, professional development, staff support and recognition, commitment to work/life balance, and more. This nomination must come from the staff of the nominee.
Download Nomination Form-Employer of the YearGive Back Award
This award recognizes business or individual within that business that has demonstrated outstanding support for their community, charitable organizations, community groups (sports, arts, theater, dance etc.) and non-profits through philanthropic leadership and/or giving of their time or expertise to support a charitable cause or community group.
Download Nomination Form-Give Back Award
Green Initiative Award
This award celebrates outstanding achievements within the business that promotes a healthy community through green initiatives. This can include the sustainable use of natural resources such as initiatives to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, cut energy consumption, advance energy efficiency or improve air quality. It can also be about the use of sustainable materials or practices or any actions that help with carbon footprint reduction.
Download Nomination Form-Green Initiative Award
Health and Wellness Excellence Award
This award celebrates an entity that provides health and wellness services to individuals or businesses. The recipient demonstrates a consistent adherence to excellent business practices necessary to deliver the highest quality service and support to their clients/customers. This entity executes best practices in all areas of their operation to ensure maximization of their capabilities and capacity. They demonstrate a commitment to the ongoing education, skills development, or professional accreditation of its employees. The nominee shows a high level of care and concern for the community. Qualifying organizations include, but are not limited to: Retirement Homes, Health Centres, Health Care Professionals, Wellness Centres, Yoga Studios, Patient Transfer, RMT, Fitness Studios, Chiropractor, Dental Hygienist and Dental Offices, etc.
Testimonials are strongly encouraged (maximum 5).
Download Nomination Form-Health and Wellness Award
Innovation Award
The Innovation Excellence Award recognizes outstanding innovation in any manufactured product, component or service with the City of Kawartha Lakes, within the given year. The submissions must illustrate how your business’ innovation improved existing products and/or created new jobs and impacted the local economy.
Nomination considerations include, but are not limited to: large and small businesses, businesses in the manufacturing or agriculture sectors.
Download Nomination Form-Innovation Award
Legacy Leader Award
The Legacy Award honors an individual with a longstanding commitment to excellence and an impactful legacy within the Lindsay District business community. This award recognizes those who, through years of dedication, have contributed to the economic, social, or cultural vitality of our region. Ideal candidates are those whose achievements inspire others, showcase leadership, and demonstrate a sustained positive influence on local business or community development. The candidate can also be pointed to as the reason for things like growth of the business, the ongoing success of the business or that they left the business in a strong position upon retirement.
Download Nomination Form-Legacy Leader AwardMarketing Excellence Award
Celebrates outstanding strategy, campaign or media executions. The award acknowledges a business in any industry that demonstrates consistent branding, strong advertising, public relations, promotion, or sales achievements. Consumers and suppliers easily recognize this entity for their branding, creative or media.
Nomination considerations include, but are not limited to: logo design and implementation, use of varied media, consumer awareness, leading by example, community involvement, event or cause sponsorship, enhancement of business premises, online presence, and more.
Download Nomination Form-Marketing Award of Excellence
Media Excellence Award
Recognizing Visionaries in all forms of Media. The Media Excellence Award evolved through a need to recognize and celebrate creativity, innovation, and those pushing the bounds of creative excellence in all forms of local media. This award recognizes communications that keep pace with our times through innovative use of new media. This award is for marketers, broadcasters, publishers, designers, developers, innovators, visionaries, and leaders in this exciting new realm of communication. We offer recognition for introducing new methods, directing, and helping to set the pace for emerging media, and demonstrating excellence on the web — through print, broadcast, apps, mobile advertising, videos, mobile sites, podcasts and social media.
Nomination considerations include, publishers, journalists, news organizations, local associations or anyone who wishes to draw attention to a print, broadcast TV or radio or online media outlet that meets the criteria. Testimonials are strongly encouraged (maximum 5)
Download Nomination Form-Media Excellence Award
New Business of the Year Award
Celebrates the emergence of a new business or the evolution of an existing business which has been in operation in the City of Kawartha Lakes for three years or less that has proven to be progressive in their operations. This entity demonstrates sound management, business excellence, entrepreneurial spirit, and exceptional success.
Nomination considerations include, but are not limited to: product or service innovation, adoption of new technologies, job creation, success and growth, sound employee relations, dedication to customer service, participation in new economic activities and community involvement, and more.
Download Nomination Form-New Business of the YearNot-For-Profit Excellence Award
Celebrates a Not-For-Profit organization that demonstrates excellence in board governance (strong leadership abilities, strategic planning, partnerships and alliances), effective volunteer management, fundraising initiatives, successful marketing and promotion initiatives and effective program development.
Nomination considerations include, but are not limited to: purpose and mission of the organization, history of organization, board governance and leadership, strategic planning and execution abilities, effective program development, volunteer management, and fundraising success (marketing, promotion and media).
Download Nomination Form-Non-Profit AwardRising Star Award
The Rising Star celebrates a new entrepreneur, or young professional who has quickly demonstrated exceptional growth, innovation, and potential to become a leader in their field or business. This award recognizes significant early achievements, unique ideas, and community involvement, showcasing a commitment to making a positive impact. Whether through rapid business growth or fresh industry approaches, Rising Stars are those on a promising trajectory with the vision and dedication to drive future success and leave a lasting mark on their industry and community.
Download Nomination Form-Rising Star AwardSkilled Trades Award
Criteria: The Skilled Trades Award will be presented to a business that excels in providing skilled trade services to individuals or businesses. The recipient of this award will have demonstrated a consistent high level of services coupled with excellent business practices to deliver quality service and support to their clients/customers.
e.g. electrician, plumber, carpenter, HVAC technician, masonry worker
Download Nomination Form-Skilled Trades Award
Social Butterfly Award
Celebrates a business, non-profit, charitable group, organization or an individual from the aforementioned that excels at social activities on behalf of the business, non-profit, charitable group or organization. This includes, but not limited to social media activity, attending events, being seen in the community, in the media and everywhere you look. They represent their business in a positive, outgoing way. They get attention and bring awareness to their business while doing so.
Download Nomination Form-Social Butterfly Award
Tourism Excellence Award
Celebrates a business or organization’s commitment to attract non-residents to Kawartha Lakes. The award acknowledges a business or organization in any category that lures visitors to our market. The efforts of this entity contribute to our local economy.
Nomination considerations include, but are not limited to: evidence of increased bookings, visitor spending, traffic counts, overnight stays, events and attractions attendance, and more.
Download Nomination Form-Tourism Award
Youth Mentorship Excellence Award
Celebrates a business’ commitment to youth career preparation. The award acknowledges businesses and organizations actively involved in school to work transition programs with high schools and post-secondary institutions. This entity contributes to retention and attraction of educated youth.
Nomination considerations include, but are not limited to: co-op programs, internships, placements, third party coaching or mentoring, and more.
Download Nomination Form-Youth Mentorship Award
Volunteer of the Year
Criteria: Volunteers work tirelessly to make our community a better place. This award recognizes those volunteers who have taken volunteerism to a new level. This person would have been an intricate part of the success of the organization or group for which they volunteer for. This person could have improved fundraising initiatives or increased the profile of the organization. This volunteer seldom misses a meeting and is always the one attending the events and is always willing to do whatever it takes to support the organization or group. They receive no pay, nor personal benefit doing this volunteer work other than the feeling of accomplishment and that feeling of satisfaction doing something for others and their community.
Download Nomination Form-Volunteer of the Year
OUR VISION The Lindsay & District Chamber of Commerce will be the leading business and community development resource to enhance the quality of life for the City of Kawartha Lakes. | CONTACT US 180 Kent Street West, Lindsay, Ontario, K9V 2Y6 Telephone: (705) 324-2393 Fax: (705) 324-2473 Email: info@lindsaychamber.com |
