BC Business
After receiving a record 937 nominations for its 2021 edition, the Small Business BC Awards just announced the winners in six categories.
Jaimie Davis, whose Terrace-based Jada Creations makes wearable art, won the Best Solopreneur award
As the pandemic works its way through B.C., local entrepreneurs need some good news—and all the support they can get.
In that spirit, Small Business BC has announced the winners of its 18th annual competition, who were honoured at a virtual gala from May 3-6. The Small Business BC Awards received a record 937 nominations representing 558 small businesses from 88 communities throughout the province.
“This year was particularly special for us at Small Business BC. We saw an overwhelming show of support from friends, families and communities coming forward to honour the small businesses they love during a difficult year,” said president and CEO Tom Conway. “The awards mean that much more, knowing that every business nominated has faced challenges and still found ways to thrive in this new environment. It gives hope to the many other entrepreneurs who are still under extreme pressure.”
After nominees gathered votes from the public, Small Business BC tallied the top 20 in six categories. It then narrowed that group down to five finalists in each category, giving them the chance to present to a panel of business experts. The winner of the Premier’s People’s Choice award, sponsored by the provincial government, was chosen by public acclaim.
Each winner received $1,500; a short video of their business, shot by a professional film crew; and an all-access pass to Small Business BC’s services.
Here’s the full list of winners:
Best Community Impact: Sisters Sage, Vancouver
Best Immigrant Entrepreneur: Charcuterie Vancouver, Vancouver
Best Solopreneur: Jada Creations, Terrace
Best Youth Entrepreneur: Sea to Sky Sourdough BReD, Whistler
Best Innovation: Matidor, Vancouver
Premier’s People’s Choice: Bigfoot Donuts, Courtenay