For the first time in three and a half years, the Kenora and District Chamber of Commerce selected it’s top businesses.

The 2024 business awards were presented last light at a gala banquet.

Boreal Cork won for Innovative Small Business.

Kelly Balkwill and her husband run the business and explains what Boreal Cork is all about.

“Think of it as an alternative to stucco or paint or vinyl on the exterior of your home,” Balkwill said after winning the award.

“What it’s actually going to do is create a thermal barrier.  It is not going to let the heat in during the summertime.  It’s not going to let the cold in during the winter.  It’s going to add ‘R’ value.”

Vic Moss was singled out Tourism and Hospitality for her business Mosswood Adventures.

“It’s just really nice to be recognized especially in the category of Tourism and Hospitality.  I’m up against some pretty big organizations and names and so to be recognized as a solo entrepreneur is pretty cool.”

Northern Sounds and Systems won for customer service excellence under 10 employees and A&W won the award for customer excellence over 10 employees.

Apex Rail was named the top Aboriginal Business, while Mitch Plamondan from Chipman Laundry was the Entrepreneur of the Year and Keewatin Place for Inclusive Business of the year.

Other winners were Kenora Bed and Bale for business improvement, Atlas Strength and Fitness for New business under two years old. and Hannah Edie as Young Entrepreneur of the Year for  Hannah Francis Photography.