Local businesses, entrepreneurs, and community leaders in the spotlight at the Chatham Capitol Theatre.
The 139th annual Business Excellence Awards were handed out by the Chatham-Kent Chamber of Commerce, representing a diverse cross-section of local businesses, entrepreneurs, and community leaders who have demonstrated innovation, growth, and commitment to the municipality.
“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 Amanda Clark, Chair of the Chatham-Kent Chamber of Commerce in a news release. “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.”
2026 Award Recipients:
• ATHENA Leadership Award – Megg Lyttle
• Business of the Year – Medium – Enviroshake
• Business of the Year – Small – Engineering For Kids
• Business of the Year Large – 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
