The winners of the 15^th Annual Small Business BC Awards were announced on February 23rd, 2018 at a glamourous gala celebration. Out of 50 small businesses that made it to the finals, 10 walked away with a coveted award.

Over 600 attendees gathered at the Vancouver Convention Centre yesterday for the awards’ 15^th anniversary of being the largest provincial small business awards competition and to honour the hundreds of nominees who were involved in this year’s contest.

The celebrations included two cocktail networking receptions, a three-course gala dinner, and the awards ceremony, hosted by Erin Cebula and an esteemed panel of sponsors. Attendees included the Minister for Jobs, Trade and Technology, Bruce Ralston, Assistant Deputy Minister Gerry Salembier, MLA’s Rick Glumac, Joan Issacs and Jordan Sturdy, numerous Mayors and elected officials, and hundreds of small business owners and supporters.

“The awards were a roaring success,” said Small Business BC CEO George Hunter. “We had an incredible sold-out crowd and shared an evening filled with inspiration and celebration. This year’s competition recognized a truly diverse collection of B.C.’s small businesses and we look forward to next year’s event.”

15th Annual Small Business BC Award Winners

Premier’s People’s Choice

Sponsored by the Government of British Columbia

The Gibsons Butcher

This artisan butcher shop is a local family business located in Gibsons. They pride themselves in offering friendly, personalized service where custom cuts and requests are always welcomed. Owner Adam Vanderwoerd has succeeded in making his small business a cornerstone of his local community.

Best Apprentice Training

Sponsored by ITA

Northern Legendary Construction

Founded in 2007 by Eric Bell, Northern Legendary Construction is one of the leading construction companies in Fort St John and the greater Peace Region. They specialize in general contracting for new builds and renovations in the commercial, industrial, and residential fields. Their absolute commitment to craftsmanship and service sets them apart from the competition.

Best Community Impact

Sponsored by Vancity

Recycling Alternative

100% locally owned and operated, Recycling Alternative has grown to be recognized as a local leader in innovative approaches to recycling and community partnerships. They have initiated and co-developed innovative waste reduction and recycling models, through community partnerships including the Vancouver Biodiesel Coop, the Food Scraps Drop Spot, Vancouver’s GreenHUB and Recycle in Strathcona.

Best Company

Sponsored by Sage

Wicks Electric Inc.

Founded by Bowen Island native Adam Wicks, Wick Electric Inc. offers an experienced team of professional electricians serving the entire Lower Mainland. The company handles everything from large-scale residential and commercial projects, to services calls and small jobs. Owner Adam Wicks was named in BC Business’ prestigious “30 Under 30” list in 2016.

Best Concept

Sponsored by Rogers

Sea to Sky Removal

The construction industry is a huge creator of waste materials and refuse. Sea to Sky Removal is on a mission to change this wastefulness by providing affordable and environmentally-conscious alternatives. As part of their service, they provide recycling tutorials to crews who are used to tossing everything – plastic, wood, cardboard, carpet, stone – in a single trash bin. They even provide photo documentation and diversion percentage reports for Built Green and LEED projects, so contractors know exactly where materials end up.

Best Employer

Sponsored by TruShield Insurance

Imperial Custom Wood Finishing

Imperial Custom Wood Furnishing Ltd is a contract spray finishing shop serving the cabinetry, mill work, and furniture industry in the Fraser Valley for over 13 years. They are committed to employee development through a robust training program and fun, extra-curricular activities like spa days and company outings.

Best Immigrant Entrepreneur

Sponsored by Small Business BC

Freshworks Studio

FreshWorks Studio is an award-winning Victoria & Vancouver-based firm working in the space of digital transformation. They specialize in designing and developing mobile and web apps with clients including BC Ferries, Harbour Air, Used.ca, BC Government, CGI and Sierra Systems.

Best Innovation

Sponsored by Western Economic Diversification Canada

AVA Technologies

AVA Technologies are the pioneers behind the AVA Byte, an AI-enabled smart indoor garden equipped with revolutionary sensors. Think Nespresso for gardening, meets Apple design, with a Tesla-like auto growing software.

Best International Trade

Sponsored by UPS

Ironside Design Manufacturing

Ironside is a fully equipped fabrication, design and industrial supplies shop. They undertake a range of projects, from small, one-of-a-kind jobs, to mass production of units. The company has been in business since 1902.

Best Marketer

Sponsored by KPU

Two Wheel Gear

Two Wheel Gear invented the bike suit bag in 1999. Their innovation grew into a premium brand of specialized bags and panniers for bike commuters. Today, their brand has developed a cult following and is carried across Canada in retail giants like MEC.