Chamber Celebrates Local Business Leadership at 2026 Business Excellence Awards Gala

The Chamber of Commerce Brantford-Brant celebrated local business leadership, community involvement, and entrepreneurship at its annual Business Excellence Awards Gala.

Established in 1985, the Business Excellence Awards Gala has become one of the Chamber’s signature events, recognizing businesses, organizations, entrepreneurs, and community leaders who help strengthen Brantford and Brant County.

This year’s gala was held at the Best Western Brantford Hotel and Conference Centre and was presented by BDO Canada LLP. The event welcomed approximately 300 guests, including local business leaders, community members, Brantford Mayor Kevin Davis, and Brant County Mayor David Bailey.

A total of 15 local businesses, organizations, entrepreneurs, and community leaders were nominated across five award categories. The evening also included the introduction of a new industrial award, recognizing the important role of skilled trades and local industry in the community.

Rick and Josie Mannen were also recognized with the David Baxter Outstanding Achievement Award for their long-standing volunteer work and community leadership. The award honours individuals who have helped make the community a better place to live, work, and play.

The Bell Community Builder Award
Winner: Brant United Way
Finalists: Brantford Blessing Centre and Jaycee Homes Brantford

Enterprise Brant Entrepreneur of the Year Award
Winner: Brave Waves Swim School, Julia and Jessica Surette
Finalists: 123 Supplies and Protection Security Investigations

Waterous, Holden, Amey, Hitchon Company of the Year Award
Winner: GEM Electrical Services
Finalists: Hotline Apparel Systems and Tenaxx Logistic

OLG Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Award
Winner: YMCA of Hamilton Burlington and Brantford
Finalists: Contact Brant and Grand River Community Health Centre

City of Brantford Industrial Award
Winner: BML Multi-Trades Group Ltd.
Finalists: GrandBridge Energy and Synergy Mouldworks Inc.

Congratulations to all of this year’s winners and nominees. The annual gala continues to shine a spotlight on the people, businesses, and organizations helping move Brantford and Brant County forward.