Meridian Small Business Big Impact Awards

We serve all of Ontario and we want to make sure that’s reflected in how we recognize and reward businesses making a positive impact. This way, even if we get tons of nominations from businesses in Toronto or Hamilton, we can make sure we’re not missing out on great businesses in other Ontario communities.

Here’s a quick breakdown of what counties are in what region:

Of course! Nominate any business in Ontario that you believe meets our criteria and make a positive impact.

Any business that is Indigenous-owned qualifies, and will be automatically entered into the Indigenous Entrepreneur category. To be considered Indigenous-owned, the business must be majority-owned by Indigenous people (at least 51%). The owners must identify as First Nations, Métis, or Inuit, or be registered under the Indian Act. The business must be controlled by Indigenous individuals, groups, or organizations.

Indigenous entrepreneurs self-identify during the nomination process.

No, the Indigenous Entrepreneur award category is separate from the regions and all Indigenous-owned businesses from across Ontario are eligible for this award.

Yes. We welcome business owners and employees to nominate their own business.

Absolutely. Just fill out the form again each time you nominate a new business.

After all the nominations are in, our team goes through each one and selects eight finalists for each region. These finalists then get the opportunity to provide more insight into their business and impact.

Then, our team gives that information to the judge panels. There is a panel of three judges for each region. They will carefully consider all the finalists and select three winners. The panel submits their top choice to the Ontario Votes stage.

Five businesses are eligible for the Ontario Votes award (an additional $50,000). We’ll invite anyone in Ontario to vote for one winner.