New Business of the Year 

The recipient of the New Business of the Year award has been active for less than two years as of January 3rd, 2026. They have showcased remarkable business performance within a brief timeframe, indicating significant potential for future growth. Their operation serves as a source of inspiration for other emerging businesses and reflects a strong dedication to the Annapolis Valley community.

Eligibility Requirements:

  • The nominee must have an active for-profit business located or operating in the Annapolis Valley (Hants/Kings border –  Lawrencetown) or be a member of the Annapolis Valley Chamber.
  • Nominees must have been in business less than two years as of January 3rd, 2026
  • Nominees cannot be an expansion of an existing business, a name change or a new location of an existing business

Micro Business of the Year 

The recipient of the Micro Business of the Year showcases resilience and resourcefulness, with a clear vision for sustaining or scaling their success in the Annapolis Valley. They have been active for a minimum of two years as of January 3rd, 2026. This business actively engages with its community and is able to demonstrate meaningful community impact.

Eligibility Requirements:

  • The nominee must have an active for-profit business located or operating in the Annapolis Valley (Hants/Kings border– Lawrencetown) or be a member of the Annapolis Valley Chamber
  • Nominees must be an independently owned and operated business with a total number of employees not exceeding 5. For the business awards, contractors are considered employees
  • The business must be owner-operated for a minimum of two years, as of January 3rd, 2026.
  • The nominee must not have won an award in this category in the last five years

Small Business of the Year 

The Small Business of the Year exemplifies expansion in its workforce and business operations. They have been active for a minimum of two years as of January 3rd, 2026. This business actively engages with its community and exhibits potential for further expansion and substantial sales growth.

Eligibility Requirements:

  • The nominee must have an active for-profit business located or operating in the Annapolis Valley (Hants/Kings border– Lawrencetown) or be a member of the Annapolis Valley Chamber
  • Nominees must be an independently owned and operated business with a total number of employees between 6 – 20. For the business awards, contractors are considered employees
  • The business must be owner-operated for a minimum of two years, as of January 3rd, 2026.
  • The nominee must not have won an award in this category in the last five years

Large Business of the Year 

The recipient of the Large Business of the Year award showcases consistent excellence in business operations, characterized by sustained growth. They are esteemed leaders within their industry, recognized for their exemplary customer service and unwavering commitment to quality. Moreover, they have actively contributed to the advancement of the Annapolis Valley by participating in meetings, serving on committees, and offering assistance to foster the region’s growth and prosperity.

Eligibility Requirements:

  • The nominee must have an active for-profit business located or operating in the Annapolis Valley (Hants/Kings border– Lawrencetown)  or be a member of the Annapolis Valley Chamber
  • Nominees must be an independently owned and operated business with a total number of employees exceeding 20. For the business awards, contractors are considered employees
  • The business must be owner-operated for a minimum of two years, as of January 3rd 2026
  • The nominee must not have won an award in this category in the last five years

Diversity, Equity, Accessibility & Inclusion Advancement Award

The recipient of the Equity, Diversity, Accessibility & Inclusion Advancement Award is a business that exemplifies a dedicated effort to promote and uphold the values of equity, diversity, accessibility, and inclusion within their organization. Their initiatives may encompass internal and external efforts, addressing at least one of the following areas: Gender/Sexual Diversity, Indigenous Rights, Anti-Racism & Discrimination, Disability Rights, Gender Equity, Accessibility, and Inclusion. This award spotlights the business’s commitment to fostering a more diverse, equitable, and inclusive environment for all individuals.

Eligibility Requirements:

  • The nominee must have an active for-profit business located or operating in the Annapolis Valley (Hants border– Lawrencetown) or be a member of the Annapolis Valley Chamber
  • Nominees must be an independently owned and operated business
  • The nominee must not have won an award in this category in the last five years

Entrepreneur of the Year

The Entrepreneur of the Year stands out for their exceptional efforts in cultivating and strengthening the local economic landscape, thus enriching the prosperity and welfare of the Annapolis Valley through entrepreneurial endeavours. Highly esteemed by both customers and the business community, they are recognized for their professionalism, service excellence, and unwavering commitment. Furthermore, they play a leadership role within the community, offering mentorship, fostering strong customer relations, and actively supporting local events, programs, and initiatives.

Eligibility Requirements:

  • The nominee must have an active for-profit business located or operating in the Annapolis Valley (Hants border– Lawrencetown) or be a member of the Annapolis Valley Chamber
  • The nominee must not have won an award in this category in the last five years

 

Not-for-Profit of the Year

The Not-for-Profit of the Year is a registered organization dedicated to serving others within the Annapolis Valley and beyond. They are recognized as innovators and trailblazers, offering programs and services aimed at enhancing community well-being. Their operations have demonstrated tangible progress and expansion, making a measurable impact on the communities they serve.

Eligibility Requirements:

  • Nominees must be a registered not-for-profit located and operating in the Annapolis Valley (Hants border– Lawrencetown) or be a member of the Annapolis Valley Chamber
  • A minimum of 51% of staff must work in the Annapolis Valley
  • A minimum of 51% of activities and funds must be raised in the Annapolis Valley
  • The nominee must not have won an award in this category in the last five years

Lifetime Achievement Award

The Lifetime Achievement Award is the most prestigious honour presented by the Annapolis Valley Chamber of Commerce. It is reserved for an individual who has dedicated their career to the betterment of our business community and has left an indelible mark on the Annapolis Valley. This award isn’t just about business success—it’s about a lifetime of vision, integrity, and mentorship. We look for those rare leaders who have not only built thriving enterprises but have also paved the way for others, championed community growth, and served as a beacon of inspiration for generations of entrepreneurs.

Eligibility Requirements:

  • The nominee must be located in the  Annapolis Valley (Hants border– Lawrencetown) or be a member of the Annapolis Valley Chamber
  • The nominee must not have won an award in this category in the last five years