2026 Business & Community Recognition Awards
Dunnville gathered in celebration as the Dunnville Chamber of Commerce proudly hosted the 2026 Business & Community Recognition Awards — an evening dedicated to honouring the people, businesses, volunteers, and organizations that shape the heart of our community.
From entrepreneurship and innovation to youth leadership and lifelong service, the awards showcased the depth of talent and generosity that defines Dunnville.
The evening recognized 14 categories, (and the Merigold Lifetime Acheivement Award) each highlighting excellence across sectors that strengthen our town socially and economically.
Celebrating Business Excellence
The Business of the Year (1–15 Employees) award, sponsored by Grand River Outdoors, was presented to Luke’s Luxury Details / Mobile Blast Co. Read More
The Business of the Year (16+ Employees) award, sponsored by Watertite Roofing, was awarded to GrandErie Home Hardware Building Centre. Read More
The Outstanding New Business Award, sponsored by Egger Truck & Machine Ltd., was presented to On the Go with Joe Classy Cab Co. Read More
The Outstanding Customer Service Award, sponsored by Klear Kustom Classic Car Restoration, was awarded to GrandErie Home Hardware Building Centre. Read More
The Non Brick & Mortar Award, sponsored for the third year by OTB Marketing & Publishing, was presented to On the Go with Joe Classy Cab Co. Read More
The Outstanding Young Entrepreneur Award, sponsored by Dunnville Youth Impact Centre, was awarded to Luke Ellis of Luke’s Luxury Details / Mobile Blast Co. Read More
The Employer of the Year Award, sponsored by Desjardins Commercial Services, was presented to Minor Bros. Animal Health & Nutrition – Feed Mill Office (MB Country Living). Read More
The Tourism Award, sponsored by Hartzel Marine, was awarded to the No. 6 RCAF Dunnville Museum. Read More
The Agricultural Sustainability Award, sponsored by Rosa Flora Limited, was presented to Hedley Seed. Read More
The Innovation Award, sponsored by Bucks by Tatra — the inaugural Innovation Award recipient — was awarded to De Boss Garage for groundbreaking advancements in diesel-electric hybrid technology. Read More
Recognizing Community Leadership
The Not-for-Profit of the Year Award, sponsored by Harmony Jewellers, was presented to True Experience for their impactful work supporting housing and mental health in Haldimand. Read More
The Charitable Organization of the Year Award, sponsored by GrandErie Home Hardware Building Centre, was awarded to the Dunnville Youth Impact Centre for its extensive youth programming, mentorship, and partnerships across the region. Read More
The Youth Citizen of the Year Award, sponsored by Egger Excavating Ltd., was presented to Jacklyn Nagel for her leadership within Junior Optimist and her active role in school and community initiatives. Read More
And the evening’s highest individual honour, Citizen of the Year, sponsored by Steady Point Osteopathics and Wellness, was awarded to Kim Plante, whose quiet, consistent, and selfless volunteerism across countless organizations continues to strengthen Dunnville at every level. Read More
Special Awards
Merigold Lifetime Achievement Award Honours the Legacy of John W. Hart Jr. Read More
Honouring All Nominees
While winners were announced, the Chamber emphasized that every nominee represents the very best of Dunnville. Dozens of individuals, businesses, and organizations were put forward by peers who recognized their impact, generosity, and leadership.
The nomination process itself is a testament to the pride residents feel for one another and the desire to see hard work acknowledged.
Please swipe through the gallery above – Photos were graciously collected from attendees, Marianne Kidd, and John Paul Salgueiro, with more to follow from Brian Booth, our official photographer for the evening.
A Community Effort
The success of the evening was made possible through the collaboration, generosity, and dedication of many.
A heartfelt thank you was extended to all sponsors whose continued support ensures the Business & Community Recognition Awards grow stronger each year.
The Chamber also acknowledged and appreciated the attendance of local elected officials, whose presence reinforces the importance of recognizing excellence within Dunnville’s business and volunteer community.
Special recognition was given to this year’s judges — Patrick, Debi Weaver, Angelene Hunter, Mary Anne Anderson, and Lauren Anderson — who generously gave their time and thoughtful consideration to reviewing nominations and helping ensure a fair and meaningful selection process.
Additional appreciation was extended to:
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Gerti, whose warm hospitality behind the bar helped create a welcoming atmosphere throughout the evening.
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Rosa Flora Limited, for the beautiful floral arrangements that elevated the event space.
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Kate Owen of Trophy Plus, who graciously accommodated additional engraving after the event to ensure every award properly reflected its recipient.
The Chamber also recognized the many volunteers who assisted behind the scenes with setup, registration, coordination, and logistics. Events of this scale are never the work of one person — they are powered by teamwork.
Leadership Behind the Event
The 2026 Business & Community Recognition Awards were presented under the leadership of the Dunnville Chamber of Commerce Board:
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Rebecca Booth, President
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JP Salgueiro, Vice President & Events
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Marianne Kidd, Treasurer
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Angela Brooks, Marketing & Communications
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Jen Robertson, Small Business Support
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Deb Rollo, Community Services
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Tamara Lovegrove, Membership
Their collective efforts — alongside the broader Chamber membership (123 members in 2025) — continue to strengthen Dunnville’s business environment and community partnerships.
A Night That Reflects Dunnville
As the evening concluded, one thing was clear: Dunnville thrives because people show up. Entrepreneurs take risks. Volunteers give their time. Organizations build partnerships. Youth step forward. Citizens lend a hand without being asked.
The 2026 Business & Community Recognition Awards were not simply about trophies — they were about gratitude.
To every nominee, sponsor, volunteer, and attendee: thank you for contributing to a community built on service, leadership, and heart.
Dunnville is stronger because of you.
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.