The Timmins Chamber of Commerce has officially announced 45 local businesses, organizations and individuals as finalists for the 2017 Nova Business Excellence Awards, the region’s biggest celebration of entrepreneurial achievement.

A panel of six independent community judges narrowed 130 nominations down to three finalists in each of 15 categories. Representing some of the best and brightest of Timmins’ business community, these finalists will be celebrated at the Nova Awards’ gala evening, to be held at the McIntyre Arena on May 11.

Now in its 15th year, the annual awards gala shares the success stories of Timmins businesses and highlights the positive impact they have on the community. The quality of the nominees for this year’s awards is a testament to that strength and creativity, said Christine Bender, president of the Timmins Chamber of Commerce.

“The Nova Awards are designed to highlight the very best that our business community has to offer, and as always, we are in awe of the quality of the nominations we’ve received this year,” said Bender.

“Timmins is recognized internationally for our knowledge and expertise, and when you look at our list of finalists, it’s easy to see why. We’re thrilled to be able to honour these amazing entrepreneurs through the Nova Awards, and we look forward to having Timmins join us in our celebration on May 11.”

The theme for this year’s gala evening will be “Where Business Fits Together,” said Bender, with puzzle pieces being used as a visual motif to show how Timmins organizations and entrepreneurs work together to make Timmins a better place to live, work and play.

“When you step back and look at the larger picture of Timmins’ economy, you can see countless businesses contributing to the community in ways big and small, each and every day. Our entrepreneurs are also our neighbors, and they strengthen our economy while funding scholarships, sponsoring sports teams, and providing jobs. The Nova Awards shine a light on some of this important work, and we’re proud to do this for 15 remarkable years.”

Tickets to the gala event will go on sale March 21 at $125 plus HST, or $100 plus HST for Chamber members, and tables of 10 are available. Ticket reservations can be made via email at info@timminschamber.on.ca

A photo gallery of finalists receiving their notifications is available at http://tinyurl.com/2017NovaFinalists

Here is a list of categories and the finalists:

BMT Insurance & Financial Services Business Contribution to the Community Award (1-5 Employees)

  • BioPed Footcare
  • Near North Video Productions
  • Tree Bandit

The Venture Centre Business Contribution to Community Award (6-10 Employees)

  • Albert’s Sports & Work Wear Ltd.
  • Bermuda Tan
  • Northern Windows & Doors

NorthernTel Business Contribution to Community Award (11+ Employees)

  • Fountain Tire
  • St. Mary’s Gardens
  • Vets Taxi & Dispatch Service Inc.

FNETB Best Place to Work Award

  • Family Eye Care
  • Gosselin Law Firm Professional Corporation
  • Great White North Technology Consulting Inc.

Collège Boréal Young Professional Award (Under 40)

  • Natisha McLeod, Beautiful Noise
  • Katelyn Malo, Black Spruce Gallery & Framing
  • Dr. Michael Popovic, Timmins Chiropractic Clinic

RBC Marketing Award

  • Bella Esthetics & Spa
  • O’Reilly Sports
  • Radical Gardens

PIC Productivity, Innovation & Diversification Award

  • Handy Hydrant
  • NORMAP
  • PAIB Insurance Inc.

Northern College Service Excellence Award

  • Chic Baby & Kids
  • Hampton Inn by Hilton Timmins
  • Lemongrass

Caisse Populaire de Timmins New Business Award (Under 2 years)

  • Get Ribbed Smokehouse & BBQ Pit
  • The Working Class
  • Z Timmins Inc.

TD Bank Group Business of the Year Award (1-5 Employees)

  • Quantum Realty Services Ltd.
  • Timmins Gracie Jiu-Jitsu and Muay Thai Academy
  • Workforce North

Scotiabank Business of the Year Award (6-10 Employees)

  • Emergency Response & Support Services
  • Rainville Health
  • Timmins Flower Shop Inc.

Kidd Operations Business of the Year Award (11+ Employees)

  • Attawapiskat Enterprises
  • DJB Mining Products & Services Ltd.
  • The Bucket Shop

De Beers Canada Indigenous Partnership Award

  • Cree Quest
  • Nishnawbe Aski Development Fund
  • NORCAT and Temiskaming Native Women’s Support Group

City of Timmins Non-Profit Organization Award

  • Anti-Hunger Coalition Timmins
  • Northern College
  • Timmins Festivals and Events Committee

OPG Lifetime Business Achievement Award

  • John’s Neon Signs Ltd.
  • Mascioli Construction Co. Ltd.
  • Timmins Garage Inc.

President’s Award

  • To be announced at the Nova Awards on May 11
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