This award recognizes a business that has been operating for less than two years. The business has demonstrated strong potential via growth, innovation, and leadership during the first years of operation. Additionally, the business has demonstrated a culture of risk-taking and trailblazing and has positioned itself to achieve similar successes in the future.

2018 Winner: Union Kitchen Inc.
 

Sustainability Leader Award sponsored by Summergate Winery 

The Sustainability Leader Award recognizes any business that operates in an environmentally responsible manner and/or produces a product that reduces natural resource consumption, supports local community and supports the local economy. This award celebrates excellence in green practice, strategy and products, seeking out the most innovative, ambitious and effective initiatives by Summerland businesses for achieving environmental sustainability, and implementing smart business practice.

2018 Winner: Swiss Solar Tech Ltd.
 

Technology and Innovation Excellence Award sponsored by Accelerate Okanagan

This award will be given to a business that has used science and/or technology to create a business concept that is new or unique, or has applied innovative improvements to existing processes, products, or services that enhance their business. 

2018 Winner: Swiss Solar Tech Ltd.

Award for Excellence in Agriculture sponsored by Summerland’s Bottleneck Drive Winery Association 

This award will be presented to any business, including farms, that has made outstanding contributions to the advancement and or the promotion of the agricultural industry/Summerland's agricultural reputation.

2018 Nominees: Summerland Sweets

Professional Services Excellence Award sponsored by Brown Benefits

The Professional Services Excellence Award recognizes a professional in the community who has provided superior professional services to a client or customer. This company or business owner has exceeded the expectations of their clients. The professional represents a diverse group of Summerland businesses and can be defined as someone who has received specific training and specializes in a particular field.

Trade Services Excellence Award sponsored by Alder Street Auto Body

The Trade Services Excellence Award recognizes a tradesperson in the community who has provided superior trades services to a client or customer. This company or business owner has exceeded the expectations of their clients.

2018 Winner: Deputy Diesel Performance 

Manufacturing/Industrial Excellence Award sponsored by Community Futures Okanagan Similkameen

The Manufacturing/Industrial Excellence Award is presented to a business that has strengthened the economic base of Summerland through development, manufacturing or fabrication of a product. Innovation, growth and sustainability are attributes this business demonstrates.

2018 Winner: Noah’s Ark Metal Work

Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award sponsored by IGA Summerland

The Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award recognizes a Summerland resident who is 40 years or younger and has shown an entrepreneurial spirit in their dedication and commitment to our community through their interest in business, leadership, peer mentoring and personal achievement.

2018 Winner: Mike Hughes & Lauren Forsyth - Grasslands Nursery
 

Tourism/Hospitality Excellence Award sponsored by Sumac Ridge Estate Winery

An individual, business or organization that has promoted Summerland as a tourist destination and that promotion has led to a positive impact on the economic health of our community. This award winner works well with others in the industry and shows leadership by the use of cross-promotions and innovative marketing strategies.

2018 Winner: True Grain Bread 

Retail Excellence Award sponsored by the Summerland Review

Skilled retailing requires an attention for detail in aesthetics, atmosphere, location and merchandise. The Retailing Excellence Award recognizes a retailer who has been proactive to changing market trends, embraced new technology or ideas and has combined skilled marketing with good selling practices. This retailer is a leader in the merchant community. Strong relationships with employees and customers are essential.

2018 Winner: BeadTrails Experience
 

Community Awards

Award for Excellence in Customer Service sponsored by RE/MAX Orchard Country

This award will be given to an employee who demonstrates a high standard of customer service in one or all of the following: customer relations, anticipating and meeting customer needs, providing outstanding service, and exceeding expectations.

2018 Winner: Roch Fortin/Mirjana Komljenovic - Maple Roch Pure Canadian Maple Syrup

The Arts Award

Nominees in this category may include an individual, a business,  group, organization or a particular event that contributes to a vibrant community by celebrating arts, culture and/or heritage.

2018 Winner: Rudy Skoreyko - Artisans of the Okanagan
 

Citizen/Volunteer of the Year Award sponsored by Nesters Market

The Citizen/Volunteer of the Year Award recognizes a Summerland individual who has demonstrated exemplary dedication to the people of Summerland and who inspires others by their volunteer commitment to the community. This community leader is motivated by their desire to support Summerland and gives freely of their time, talents and energy in local organizations, festivals and special projects.​

2018 Winner: Mirjana Komljenovic

Excellence in Community Youth Leadership Award sponsored by Neighbourlink

The Excellence in Community Youth Leadership Award recognizes a local Secondary School senior student who has demonstrated dedication to the community of Summerland by their volunteer commitments and youth leadership. This young leader is motivated by their desire to support Summerland and gives freely of their time, talents and energy to local groups, festivals and special projects. Nominations can come from anyone in the community and will be voted on by the whole community.

2018 Winner: Jillian Henrichsen