The Alberta Business Awards of Distinction was initially created by Alberta Economic Development and Tourism in 1992 during a merger of the Alberta Export Achievement Awards and the Alberta Small Business Owner of the Year Awards. The Government of Alberta originally presented the Alberta Business Awards of Distinction in the fall of each year from 1992 to 1995.
In 1996, the Alberta Chambers of Commerce took over the management and presentation of the Awards, and in 2017, took over full ownership of the program. The Alberta Business Awards of Distinction are 100 percent funded by the Alberta Chambers of Commerce and the generous support of its partners.
Recognizes a business/organization that has impact/influence on a community by making that community a more attractive place to work, live, visit and play.
Recognizes a business/organization that is successful in improving customer experiences in a measurable & strategic way.
Recognizes an inclusive business/organization which demonstrates best practices in recognizing and appreciating diversity so that employees, clients, customers and others are respected and valued as unique individuals.
Recognizes a business/organization that demonstrates outstanding achievement in exporting products or services outside of Canada’s borders.
Finalists in all award categories are eligible for the Alberta’s Best of Business Award of Distinction. This form is only accessible as the second part of all other submissions. It cannot be applied for by itself.
Recognizes a business/organization that demonstrates best practices when it comes to initiatives, programs, and benefits that enhance the physical and mental health and well-being of its employees.
Recognizes a First Nation, Metis or Inuit owned business that demonstrates outstanding achievement in business and incorporates entrepreneurial and cultural concepts into its operation for long-term success.
Recognizes a non-Indigenous business that demonstrates outstanding achievements in Indigenous relations, including economic development, employment and training, and Indigenous community support.
Recognizes a business/organization that has developed a process, product or service that is original and is directly contributing to profitability & or market share.
Recognizes a business/organization that develops and implements successful marketing strategies that have a demonstrable impact on business outcomes.
Recognizes a business/ organization that endorses a distinct strategy or program that promotes mentorship internally or externally.
Recognizes the business success of individuals who were born outside of Canada and now call Alberta home. This award honours the work and efforts of newcomer entrepreneurs who have overcome unique challenges to build successful organizations in Alberta and make meaningful contributions to the Alberta economy.
Recognizes a small business which best reflects the outstanding spirit and success of Alberta’s small business community.
Recognizes a female entrepreneur for outstanding achievement in business and who is a positive role model within her community.
Recognizes the business that best exemplifies the qualities of effective leadership, innovatively applied know-how, and excellent potential for growth, shows a high level of social, cultural, and environmental awareness, has demonstrated commitment to the wider community; engages in continuous learning or other improvement opportunities designed to advance the economic, social, and environmental prospects of the enterprise.