VICTORIA, BC – These turbulent times have forced many of us to adapt and re-focus on new priorities in order to survive and thrive as we bounce forward. With so much change underway, it’s vital to have beacons that guide and inspire us. This year, The Chamber hopes to add a little extra attention to our annual Business Awards and shine the spotlight on entrepreneurs and organizations that have gone above and beyond — especially in support of their staff, customers and clients to manage the challenges of COVID-19. To help share their stories, we’re hoping to spread the word that nominations are open until midnight, Jan. 25.  

The 2021 Business Awards feature 14 categories recognizing businesses that distinguished themselves in many ways, including excellent customer service, community builder, emerging professionals and business person of the year. If you know of hard-working entrepreneurs, business people and community leaders who were able to rise above the uncertainty of the pandemic, we encourage you to nominate them at victoriachamber.ca. Individuals and organizations can also nominate themselves.  

Winners will be determined by an independent panel of prominent business leaders who will serve as judges. The awards ceremony will once again be a televised broadcast — last year’s show reached 50,000 viewers on CHEK TV. 

“It’s never been a more important time to celebrate our local businesses and the contributions they make to our community,” Chamber CEO Bruce Williams said. “So many businesses have been truly outstanding in the work they’ve done to keep our community strong. I’m awestruck every day by the efforts to help others adapt and survive during the pandemic. We are getting through this together and the Business Awards are an opportunity to show gratitude and appreciation for the innovations and leadership carrying us forward.” 

John Espley — announced in December as Chamber Member of the Year for 2021 — will be honoured during the Business Awards broadcast. The winner of the Governors’ Award of Distinction, which honours a Chamber member for outstanding leadership and accomplishments over the decades, will be announced soon.   

Since 1863, The Chamber has served Greater Victoria by working together to build good business and great community through advocacy, networking, professional development and innovative services as changing times require. Find out more at victoriachamber.ca.  

Media Contact: 
Jim Zeeben                                                                                          
Communications and Project Manager 
250 360-3471 
communications@victoriachamber.ca