The Aurora Chamber of Commerce (ACOC) is getting ready for the biggest event of the year: the Business Excellence Celebration, held on October 23 from 5 to 10 p.m.
“Each year, we celebrate and honour local businesses with this special event,” explained ACOC Director of Operations Alison Mumford. “And every year, we change the award categories, to highlight the vast array of businesses and industries in Aurora.”
This year, there are six award categories, plus a People’s Choice Award, according to Mumford. She added, “The Board of Directors selects the award categories each year and then puts out a call for nominees in the spring. This year, over 100 businesses were nominated. It’s incredible to see so many worthy candidates in our area.”
Mumford continued, “We have a Selection Committee made up of Board Directors and community members who narrow down our four finalists in each category, with the exception of the People’s Choice.”
After that, the Selection Committee interviews each of the candidates during the summer and final choices are made after that. There are 17 nominees in the People’s Choice Award and community members have the chance to vote for their favourite until September 30, said Mumford.
Final award winners are announced during the Gala Celebration, an upscale event with a Great Gatsby theme, held at the exquisite Royal Venetian Mansion.
“We are encouraging Gala ticket holders to come in their favourite Gatsby-themed costumes,” enthused Mumford. “Flapper dresses, feathered headbands, tuxedos, and top hats are welcome at this fun and fancy event!”
Over two hundred community members are expected to buy tickets for the Gala and have a chance to see first-hand who the winners of these coveted awards will be.
"Each year, our Annual Business Awards serve as a beacon of excellence, shining a light on the dedication, innovation, and hard work that fuel our community’s growth. These awards are not just a celebration of achievements but a testament to the incredible talent and resilience that drive our local economy forward,” said Sandra Ferri, ACOC President & CEO.
She finished, “By honouring these exceptional businesses, we inspire others to reach new heights and foster an environment where success is both recognized and celebrated."
To see the final list of nominees in each category, go here. To buy tickets for the Gala, go here.
