Tsjibbe Kelly (Sponsor BUCKS by Tatra ) – also accepting for Richard (DeBoss Garage) who was unable to attend.
Big Ideas Built in Dunnville
The Innovation Award recognizes a business or employee who has made considerable contributions toward advancing their industry or organization through creativity, technology, and forward-thinking solutions.
Innovation is not simply about new ideas — it is about execution. It requires risk, research, experimentation, partnership, and resilience. It often means stepping into uncharted territory, investing time and resources without guarantees, and believing in possibility long before results are visible.
This year’s nominees represent bold thinking across diverse sectors: Dunnville Craft Emporium, Keep It Grand / Keep It Clean, De Boss Garage, and Dunnville Community Theatre. Each nominee demonstrates that innovation can take many forms — from business models and environmental initiatives to mechanical engineering and creative programming.
And the 2026 Winner Is…
De Boss Garage
What Richard of De Boss Garage is building goes far beyond a project — it represents a shift in automotive engineering.
One nomination detailed the scope of his work:
“Richard from DeBoss Garage has been developing a diesel electric hybrid prototype retrofit kit for pickup trucks, in partnership with Edison Motors from British Columbia. The project is called the Edison Recharger and it is the very first diesel electric hybrid pickup truck to be built.”
Starting with a 1995 Ram pickup, Richard designed and machined custom brackets, adapters, and electric axle integrations — using 3D scanners, laser cutters, and advanced machining technologies. He partnered locally with TNK Machining in Dunnville to bring components to life, demonstrating how innovation thrives through collaboration.
The project extended globally. Richard traveled to China to source 2.8L diesel engines and electric axle components directly from manufacturers. To validate efficiency and emissions, the prototype was tested at McMaster University’s high-tech automotive lab on their dyno machine — one of the most advanced facilities in the country.
The results have captured international attention. The build was documented on YouTube, more than 4,000 universal retrofit kits have already been preordered, and the completed truck debuted at the Las Vegas SEMA Show in November 2025.
And that is only part of the story.
Richard also installed the hybrid system into a Landcruiser that successfully pulled 100,000 pounds. He frequently sources reusable automotive parts from V&R Recycling, supporting environmental responsibility while strengthening local business partnerships.
Many in Dunnville may remember seeing his “Shermanator” tank-truck in the 2025 Mudcat Festival Parade — a creative build combining a military surplus Sherman tank, truck cab, Detroit diesel engine, and winch. Beyond its visual impact, it serves as a functional off-road recovery vehicle capable of pulling combines from fields and rescuing heavy equipment from sinkholes.
Innovation, for Richard, also intersects with mentorship and service. When a 1948 Fleet Master was donated unfinished, he partnered with the youth mentorship program Truth for Teens to complete the restoration. The proceeds from the sale were donated to the charity, turning mechanical ingenuity into community investment.
Even while recovering from an ankle replacement surgery, Richard donated a diesel Silverado to his church to serve as a winter plough truck — demonstrating that leadership continues, even when mobility is limited.
The nomination concluded:
“There are so many more unique and innovative projects that he works on — these are just the top few that really deserve recognition.”
De Boss Garage proves that world-class innovation can originate in small communities — and that advanced engineering, environmental consciousness, and community partnership can exist side by side.
Sponsored by Bucks by Tatra
This award was proudly sponsored by Bucks by Tatra, the inaugural Innovation Award winner from the first year of the Business Awards. Their continued support of this category reflects a shared belief that bold thinking deserves recognition.
Innovation builds momentum. When innovators support innovators, it strengthens an entire ecosystem of creativity and progress within Dunnville.
Why This Award Matters
Innovation drives economic resilience. It attracts investment, sparks collaboration, and positions communities as forward-thinking and adaptable.
Recognizing innovation sends a powerful message: Dunnville is not only preserving its heritage — it is building its future.
Congratulations to De Boss Garage and to all nominees who continue to push boundaries and redefine what is possible.
The Dunnville Chamber of Commerce exists to support, connect, and celebrate local business. Through leadership, collaboration, and community-driven initiatives, the Chamber brings together entrepreneurs, organizations, and volunteers who are committed to helping Dunnville thrive. From business advocacy to signature events and recognition programs, the Chamber is proud to champion the people and enterprises that shape our community every day.