On Tuesday, the Town of Cochrane and the Cochrane and District Chamber of Commerce announced the launch of the Cochrane and District Chamber of Commerce Business Excellence Awards, a “new annual celebration recognizing the remarkable achievements of small businesses” in the Cochrane community.
According to the Town, the new awards are building on the momentum of the recently launched “Find it in Cochrane. Shop local.” campaign. The awards program is an extension of the community’s “shared commitment to support and showcase the entrepreneurs, innovators and local leaders who power Cochrane’s economy and enrich Cochrane’s quality of life,” the Town said.
“Small businesses are the backbone of Cochrane,” Mayor Jeff Genung wrote in a statement. “These awards are about honouring the people behind the storefronts; those who create jobs, give back to the community and contribute to the unique character of Cochrane. When we celebrate local business success, we strengthen the foundation of our entire community.”
The Town added that the Business Awards Excellence will culminate in a community gala during Small Business Week this fall. Nominations are now open, and all residents are encouraged to participate by nominating a local business in any of the 2025 award categories.
The new award categories are Business of the Year, Tourism and Community Attraction Award, Community Champion Award, Emerging Business Award, Employer Excellence Award, Customer Service Excellence Award, Greatest Impact Award, Innovation Award, Newcomer Entrepreneur Award, Indigenous Entrepreneurship Award, and the People’s Choice Award.
“It is with great pride and excitement that we announce the launch of our very first Business Excellence Awards,” said Dwayne LaMontange, the President of the Cochrane and District Chamber of Commerce. “This initiative is a celebration of the innovation, resilience and outstanding contributions of our local businesses. These awards recognize not only success in business, but the spirit of leadership, community impact and forward-thinking that drive our economy forward.”
The Town added that these awards are a celebration of the dedication, creativity and community spirit that define Cochrane’s small business community. Nominations must be submitted by July 31.
