The Kelowna Chamber racked up double the nominations in 2018 for its prestigious Business Excellence awards over 2017.

Across eleven categories, 323 nominations were received since the call for nominations in June.

 Photo Credit: Business Excellence Awards Website

“This is a stellar result,” said Tom Dyas, Past President of the Kelowna Chamber.

“Every year, the very best in businesses rise to the top, and it looks like in 2018 it will be even tougher for our independent judging panel to create their shortlists and make their final selections.”

Kelowna’s rapid growth in start-up businesses is reflected in the numbers: both the ‘Rising Star' (less than three years in business), and 'Young Entrepreneur' categories more than tripled.

Standing shoulder to shoulder to longer-term businesses, these categories will add to the excitement over the next few months in the run-up to the awards.

Photo Credit: Business Excellence Awards Website

Nominees have until Aug. 14 to complete their nomination packages so that the judges can begin the process of examination and prioritizing finalists. All Nominees who complete and submit their packages become semi-finalists.

On October 4, the Chamber is hosting an Announcement of Finalists Luncheon. All semi-finalists, previous winners, award sponsors and the media will be invited to meet this group: three businesses in each of 11 categories.

On awards night in late October, the 11 winners will be announced. Videos of each finalist at their place of business will run throughout the evening for the audience, highlighting the achievements and accomplishments for the nearly 500 guests.

Photo Credit: Business Excellence Awards Website

“We look forward to this event all year,” said Dyas.

“Having this award, or finalist plaque on the wall of your business really means something. It’s hard work, customer service, being innovative, and being just one step ahead of your local competitors and colleagues. This work is central to what the Chamber is all about in Kelowna.”