The Chatham-Kent (CK) Chamber of Commerce has handed out the 2026 Business Excellence Awards, recognizing outstanding achievements and contributions of local businesses and leaders.
At the awards ceremony on Thursday night, new CK Chamber Chair Amanda Clark thanked the businesses, stakeholders, and citizens of Chatham- Kent for their resilience, entrepreneurial spirit, and dedication that make the community thrive.
“Tonight’s Business Excellence Awards brought our purpose to life celebrating the businesses and leaders who are engaging, empowering, and inspiring others while creating lasting impact across Chatham-Kent," said Clark. "Each nominee reflects the strength of a connected business community working together to expand opportunity, drive prosperity, and shape a vibrant future for our region.”
The following were award winners:
• ATHENA Leadership Award - Megg Lyttle
• Business of the Year - Medium - Enviroshake
• Small Business of the Year - Engineering For Kids
• Large Business of the Year - Aarkel Tool And Die
• Community Investment Award - Sons of Kent Brewing Company
• Customer First Award - Business - Gianni's Tile Gallery
• Customer First Award - Individual - Sydney Lewis
• Diversity Award - Cutie Patootie Studios
• Downtown Business of the Year Award - Crow City Barbers
• Emerging Leader - Erin Genge
• Entrepreneur of the Year - Denny Vervaet
• Innovation Award - Greenfield Global
• New Business Award - Top Shelf Indoor Golf
• Newcomer Entrepreneur - Ashley Purrington
• Non-Profit Business of the Year Award - Ridgetown Area Adult Activity Centre
• Rising Star - Samantha Beecroft
• Sustainability Award - Ontario Greenhouse Vegetable Growers
• Visionary Award - Tina Hodgson
