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Meridian Small Business Big Impact Awards

541 Eatery & Exchange 2024 Grand Prize Winner
Brown paper bag with the 541 Eatery & Exchange logo. 541 Eatery & Exchange. 2024 Grand Prize Winner.

The Meridian Small Business Big Impact Awards

Nominations open September 10, 2025.

Small business big impact awards

Around here, we reward businesses making an impact

This year, to celebrate Meridian’s 5th annual Small Business Big Impact awards, we plan to reward more businesses than ever before. 

Starting September 10, 2025, nominate Ontario businesses making a meaningful difference – you can even nominate your own! We’re looking to recognize and reward businesses that drive positive change through:

  • Innovation
  • Environmental stewardship
  • Inclusive employment practices
  • Community support and other impactful initiatives

$150,000 in awards

We’re selecting award winners regionally and giving out three awards of $10,000 in each of these five communities:

  • Northern Ontario
  • Southern Ontario
  • Greater Toronto Area (GTA)
  • Niagara/Hamilton
  • Indigenous Entrepreneurs

That’s 15 awards – and a total of $150,000 going to Ontario businesses

$50,000 Ontario Votes Award

Once all the winners are announced, our team will pick the top business from each region and Ontario will vote for a top winner in early 2026. That business will receive another $50,000.

Eligible businesses

To be eligible for the 2025 Small Business Big Impact Awards, businesses must meet these criteria:

  • Registered small business operating solely in Ontario
  • Under 50 employees
  • Annual revenue under $10,000,000
  • In business for more than 12 months

Non-profit businesses and registered charities are also eligible.