Toronto, ON – Meridian, Ontario’s largest credit union and a champion of community-driven banking, is proud to announce the launch of the Fifth Annual Small Business Big Impact Awards, an initiative designed to recognize and celebrate the outstanding contributions of small businesses across Ontario that are driving meaningful change in their communities and industries.
Inspired by Meridian’s tagline, “Around here, banking is different,” the 2025 Awards continue to spotlight businesses that embody innovation, environmental stewardship, inclusive employment practices, and other impactful initiatives. This year’s program expands its reach with regional prizing across four Ontario regions; Northern Ontario, Southern Ontario, Greater Toronto Area (GTA), and Niagara/Hamilton and introduces dedicated grants for Indigenous entrepreneurs, reinforcing Meridian’s commitment to equity and social impact. One top winner from each region will move on to a public vote for a chance to win an additional $50,000 grand prize.
“Small businesses are the heartbeat of our communities,” said Kevin Vankampen, Senior Vice President, Business Banking. “Through the Small Business Big Impact Awards, we’re not just rewarding innovation, we’re elevating entrepreneurs who are building sustainable businesses, creating jobs, and inspiring meaningful progress across Ontario”
2025 Awards Highlights:
Total Grants Awarded: 15 businesses will receive funding
Regional Distribution: 3 winners per region across Ontario
Indigenous Entrepreneur Grants: 3 dedicated awards
Nominations open September 11, 2025, and close on October 31, 2025. Businesses based in Ontario are eligible to apply and do not need to be a Meridian Member to participate. Businesses and community members are encouraged to nominate deserving small businesses that are making a big impact.
For more information and to submit a nomination, visit meridiancu.ca/bigimpact.
About Meridian Credit Union
Meridian is Ontario’s largest credit union, and one of the largest in Canada. Guided by our purpose, “helping you achieve your best life,” Meridian delivers personal, and wealth financial business solutions to over 380,000 Members. Our bold Meridian for Good strategy is aimed at helping people get access to the money and advice they need; plan for a better future that is clean, resilient, and diverse; and be financially confident. Meridian has one operating subsidiaries: Meridian OneCap Credit Corp (“MOCC”). For more information, please visit: meridiancu.ca.
We acknowledge the land on which we operate is the traditional territory of many nations including the Mississaugas of the Credit, the Anishinaabe, the Chippewa, the Haudenosaunee and the Wendat peoples and now home to many diverse First Nations, Inuit, and Métis. We also acknowledge that Toronto is covered by Treaty 13 with the Mississaugas of the Credit.
Media Contact:
Erick Bauer, Meridian Credit Union
Media@meridiancu.ca; 416-587-4185