Meet the winners of BC Achievement Foundation’s 2024 Indigenous Business Awards

Since 2003, the BC Achievement Foundation has been honouring people and companies making waves in our province. With programs like its Community Award—which recognizes those going above and beyond to serve their community—and its Polygon Award in First Nations Art—which recognizes First Nations artists in B.C.—every year, the organization celebrates change-makers across different industries with the hope of inspiring more positive change in the future. 

To that end, the foundation established its Indigenous Business Awards program 16 years ago. Some 225 businesses and individuals have received recognition through this program so far, and this year’s crop of winners only solidify what we already knew about the Indigenous business community in our province: it’s thriving. 

• Young Entrepreneur of the Year: Mo Dawson Creative, Victoria 
• Business of the Year – one-to-two-person enterprise: Rad Relish Co., West Kelowna 
• Business of the Year – three-to-10-person enterprise: AshFireWear, Cranbrook  
• Business of the Year – 11+ person enterprise: KICA Contracting Ltd., Dease Lake 
• Community-owned Business of the Year – one entity: Ahous Adventures, Tofino 
• Community-owned Business of the Year – two or more entities: Nch’ḵay̓ Development Corporation, West Vancouver 
• Business Partnership of the Year: Seven Generations Environmental Services, Mission 
• Award of Distinction for Lifetime Achievement: Robert J. Dennis Sr. (Emchayiik) 

All awardees will be celebrated at a formal gala on October 7. 

 “This year’s IBA recipients demonstrate remarkable entrepreneurship and show an unyielding commitment to driving economic growth and fostering community well-being,” Walter Pela, chair of the BC Achievement Foundation, said in a release. “Their accomplishments serve as a powerful reminder of the significant impact Indigenous businesses have in shaping a prosperous and inclusive future for all British Columbians.”