The Economic Development Committee is pleased to celebrate the success of local businesses and recognize their contributions to the community. Members of the public are invited to nominate businesses each year. The nomination period takes place from the first Friday in February until the first Friday in March each year. During the nomination period, nomination forms are available online or at the Township office.
Thank You to our Sponsors:
Business of the Year
Recognizes a business operating within the Township of Rideau Lakes that has demonstrated a commitment to the community and its residents, while displaying strong ethics within the business and society.
Winners
2024: McMullan Appliance & Mattress
2023: Rideau Carpentry and Construction
2022: Wills Transfer Limited
2021: Sunnyside Family Retreat
2020: Wendy's Country Market
2019: Gordanier Freshmart
2018: Hinton Auto Group
2017: The Opinicon
2016: Country Roads Community Health Centre
Small Business Award
This award acknowledges businesses with 5 or fewer employees including the owner(s) and home-based businesses that have demonstrated qualities such as professional integrity, excellence in customer service, success through innovation and a commitment to the community. From 2016 to 2022, this category was called the "Business Innovation Award."
Winners
2024: Stoodley's Kitchen and Beverage
2023: Recess Cafe
2022: Elgin Bowling Lanes
2021: Gordanier Freshmart
2020: No.9 Gardens
2019: Miller’s Bay Farm
2018: Elgin & District Co-operative Nursery School
2017: Smiths Falls Veterinary Services
2016: 2Low Inc
New Business Award
This award category was developed to celebrate new businesses between 1 and 3 years old, and includes entrepreneurs of all ages. From 2016 to 2023, this category was called the "Young Entrepreneur Award" in honour of the hard work demonstrated by a young entrepreneur (under 35) who either resides, operates an active business, or grew up primarily in the Township.
Winners
2024: Clearly Auto Glass (Joe Chase)
2023: Stoodley's Kitchen and Beverage (Kody and Jessie-Leigh White)
2022: Bastard Coffee House (Tao Hipwell)
2021: Arctic Acres (Ben Canning)
2019: Rideau Roots (Corey Evans)
2018: Hales Excavation and Trucking (Mark Hales)
2017: Bastard Baking Company (Stefanie Dobson)
2016: Scott Blair Construction (Scott Blair)
The Rideau Lakes Business Recognition Awards Breakfast
Held on Wednesday, April 16, 2025 at the Elgin Lions Community Hall from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.
