Do you know a business or a leader whose work deserves recognition? Nominations for the 2026 Kelowna Chamber Business Excellence Awards presented by Beem Credit Union and Lawson Lundell LLP are now open. The annual awards recognize excellence across a wide range of industries and achievements, celebrating organizations and individuals that contribute to a stronger business community.

Tourism Kelowna is a proud sponsor of the Excellence in Tourism, Hospitality, and Visitor Experience award, which "recognizes a business, organization, attraction, venue, accommodation provider, restaurant, winery, event, tour operator, or hospitality-based business that enhances the visitor experience and contributes to the growth and reputation of tourism in the Central Okanagan and beyond." 

^{Members of Big White Ski Resort's team accepting the Excellence in Tourism Award at the 38th Annual Kelowna Chamber Business Excellence Awards. Image credit: Big White} 

Nominations can be submitted in the following categories: 

1. Arts & Entertainment Excellence
2. BBB Torch Award for Ethics, Integrity & Trust
3. Business & Community Leader of the Year
4. Excellence in Agriculture, Food & Agribusiness
5. Excellence in Digital Transformation
6. Excellence in Equity, Diversity, Inclusion & Belonging
7. Excellence in For-Profit Community Impact & Social Responsibility
8. Excellence in Not-for-Profit & Social Impact
9. Excellence in Sustainability & Environmental Impact
10. Excellence in Tourism, Hospitality & Visitor Experience
11. Indigenous Business Excellence Award 
12. Large Business Excellence Award
13. Mid-size Business Excellence Award
14. Rising Star & Emerging Business of the Year
15. Small Business Excellence Award
16. Top Sales & Client Experience Professional of the Year
17. Young Entrepreneur & Emerging Leader of the Year

Criteria required for each of the above categories can be found on the nomination site.

A few helpful reminders regarding submissions:

• You do not need to be a Kelowna Chamber member to be nominated.
• Anyone can submit a nomination, including self-nominations from eligible businesses or individuals.
• Multiple nominations may be received for the same nominee.

All nominations must be submitted by September 12, 2026.  

The awards will be handed out at a gala celebration on November 30, 2026. Stay tuned to the Kelowna Chamber of Commerce website for more details.