The Township of Rideau Lakes is pleased to announce that the nomination period is now open for the Business Recognition Awards.

Each year, the Township calls for nominations of businesses located in Rideau Lakes to recognize and celebrate the hard-working business owners and entrepreneurs that provide employment and services in our communities.

“Do you love a local business? Nominate them! Nominations will be open until the first Friday in March,” says Marie White, program co-ordinator, “the application is simple to complete, and we can provide assistance. We hope to see lots of businesses nominated.”

In 2026, a new honourable mention for “Long Standing Business” was developed to highlight businesses that have been continuously operating in Rideau Lakes for over 20 years. The Rideau Lakes Economic Development Committee is happy to introduce this new category to recognize the well-established businesses as an important part of the community, having been stable employers in Rideau Lakes for decades.

There is an online nomination form using SurveyMonkey, in addition to the traditional paper form. This not only makes the nomination process easy, but because the form is now available as a link, people can share the nomination form with their online networks. People are also welcome to pick up paper nomination forms at branches of the Rideau Lakes Public Library or at the Township office.

“We recognize the important contribution made by local businesses to the community,” Mayor Arie Hoogenboom remarked, “and this program creates an opportunity to celebrate their accomplishments.”

Once the deadline of March 6, 2026 arrives, a panel of judges will assess the applications. Winners will be celebrated at the annual Business Awards Breakfast, scheduled to take place on Wednesday, April 15 at the Elgin Lions Community Hall, registration is required.

Place your nomination online at rideaulakes.ca/awards