Award Categories

Community Investment Award

Through the volunteerism and generosity of their employees, philanthropic donations, and community sponsorships, businesses play a major role in the development and success of their home communities. In partnership with charities, institutions and nonprofit agencies, they contribute more than money and time to great causes – they contribute to the success and quality of life of their neighbours. This award is presented to a business whose donations, sponsorships and/or volunteerism has made a difference in the City of Saskatoon and helped to foster a climate where everyone has an opportunity to grow, succeed and thrive. The award is co-presented by a Chamber Board Member and the award’s sponsor.

New Business Venture Award

Any new and successful business venture is something to celebrate – for the business owner who launches it, the employees who help drive it, and the local economy that benefits from it. A new venture creates a world of possibilities and opportunities for those it touches, creating wealth, jobs and new opportunities as it grows from a simple start-up into a strong and sustainable business. This award is presented to a new business that has demonstrated steady growth and profitability over a 1-3 year period and has successfully positioned itself as an emerging leader and contributor to Saskatoon’s economic development. The award is co-presented by a Chamber Board Member and the award’s sponsor.

Community Impact Award (NEW)

Community-based organizations and charities help to foster a healthy business climate by contributing to the quality of life in our city. Thanks to the tireless efforts of their volunteers, vital programs and services, and social entrepreneurship, Saskatoon is a better place to live, work and build a business. This award is presented to a non-profit organization whose efforts are opening pathways for individuals to grow and thrive, delivering programs and services that are making a difference, and/or leading initiatives that will enhance our quality of life in Saskatoon today and tomorrow. This award is co-presented by a Chamber Board Member and award’s sponsor.

Entrepreneurship Award

Wealth creators. Risk-takers. Innovators. Entrepreneurs. They are the engines of our economy. They are the heart of healthy and successful communities. And, because they have the courage and conviction to build a business, we all win. This award is presented to an entrepreneur who embodies the enterprising spirit of our city and has successfully started or scaled a new business. The award is co-presented by a Chamber Board Member and the award’s sponsor.

Saskatooning Award

When visitors to our city, or local residents, venture out and experience the unique vibe Saskatoon has to offer, they call it “Saskatooning.” It’s an experience that conveys Saskatoon’s warmth, welcoming spirit and go-forward attitude that keeps visitors and guests coming back for more. This award is presented to a business, organization or institution that is a brand ambassador for our city that provides memorable, unique, made-in-Saskatoon experiences for visitors and everyone who calls Saskatoon home. The award is co-presented by a Chamber Board Member, Tourism Saskatoon and/or the award’s sponsor.

Safety Culture Award (NEW)

Ensuring safe operations and keeping employees, customers and communities safe is vital to the success and performance of any business, large or small. When businesses commit to high safety standards and focus on the well-being of their people and neighbours, it helps them attract and retain both employees and customers, contributing to growth and a thriving business climate in Saskatoon. This award is presented to a business that fosters a strong safety culture through training, development, and continuous improvement and demonstrates a commitment to the care and protection of its people, environment and customers. The award is co-presented by a Chamber Board Member and the award’s sponsor.

Growth and Expansion Award

In business, growth is the goal. It takes careful planning, a steady hand, a keen sense of the market, and patience but when that goal is achieved, it can be one of the most exciting times for any business, large or small. The new jobs, facilities and/or market opportunities that come with growth are a win for the business and Saskatoon’s economy where local workers, suppliers and other businesses can ride the momentum and open their own doors to growth as well. This award is presented to a business that has achieved growth in its profits, locations and/or workforce of 15% or more in the last year. The award is co-presented by a Chamber Board Member and the award’s sponsor.

Business of the Year

When a business is able to demonstrate excellence all facets of its planning, execution and operations, it is a rare and remarkable achievement. They are recognized as leaders for the success they have achieved, and the high standards they have met, elevating Saskatoon as a leading city to live, work and succeed in business. This award is presented to a Chamber member that embodies the values and attitude of Saskatoon’s go-forward business community and demonstrates excellence across all the areas SABEX honours and recognizes: safety, community investment, Indigenous relations, service, growth and entrepreneurial spirit. The award finalists are selected by the adjudication committee, the winner will be determined by a live vote of attendees at the SABEX Awards Gala. All Business of the Year Finalists will be highlighted throughout the event prior to the live vote. The Business of the Year award recipient will be the season closer guest speaker at Chamber on Tap on Dec. 1st, 2021.