Business Awards
Recognizing community champions making a big impact on the 2SLGBTQIA+ business community
About the Awards
Since 2013, the Manitoba Queer Chamber of Commerce (MQCC) has proudly recognized individuals, organizations, and businesses whose leadership, innovation, and dedication are creating a positive impact on Manitoba’s 2SLGBTQIA+ and broader business communities. The MQCC Annual Business Awards celebrate the visionaries who champion diversity, foster inclusion, and strengthen our economy while uplifting queer voices. Together, they highlight the power of entrepreneurship, allyship, and community building in shaping a more vibrant, equitable Manitoba.
Nominations are accepted for a limited time each year and recipients are chosen by a committee made up of MQCC members and leaders from Manitoba’s queer community. Nominees must reside in Manitoba or operate a portion of their business in Manitoba.
After a several-year pause, the MQCC is thrilled to bring back this celebration of our incredible community! Nominations for the 10th Annual MQCC Business Awards are now closed. Recipients were notified in February and received a complimentary ticket to attend MQCC’s 10th Annual Business Awards Gala Event on March 19, 2026 at WAG-Qaumajuq. There, we honoured MQCC Business Awards recipients and celebrate the completion of the first cohort of our EMERGE program.
Award Categories
Emerging Entrepreneur Award
This award celebrates an entrepreneur who has launched a new business within the past five years and is already making waves in Manitoba’s queer community and economy. It recognizes innovation, resilience, and the courage to take risks, highlighting individuals who are building sustainable enterprises while uplifting queer voices. The recipient demonstrates not only business growth but also a commitment to representation, visibility, and positive social impact.
Employer of the Year Award
Sponsored by
Summit Search GroupHonouring a business owner or senior employee of a Manitoba business who exemplifies leadership in workplace culture, this award recognizes those who prioritize employee engagement, foster work‑life balance, and champion diversity and inclusion. The recipient demonstrates that creating equitable, supportive workplaces is not only good for business but essential for building stronger communities. This award shines a light on employers who model best practices and inspire others to follow suit.
Community Builder Award
Sponsored by
Assiniboine Credit UnionThis award acknowledges an individual or community organization whose dedication and vision have significantly strengthened Manitoba’s queer community. Whether through advocacy, programming, mentorship, or grassroots organizing, the recipient has created meaningful opportunities for connection, empowerment, and visibility. Their work demonstrates the power of collective action and the importance of building inclusive spaces where queer people can thrive.
Corporate Ally Award
Sponsored by
Duboff Edwards Schachter Law CorporationRecognizing a large corporation or business entity with annual revenues of at least $10 million, this award honours organizations that leverage their influence and resources to make a substantial positive impact on Manitoba’s queer community. The recipient demonstrates authentic allyship through sustained investment, inclusive policies, and meaningful partnerships. This award highlights the role of corporate leadership in advancing equity, visibility, and opportunity for queer Manitobans.
Chamber Member of the Year Award
Selected by the MQCC Awards Committee, this award honours an individual, business, or organization whose active membership has significantly contributed to the mandate of the Chamber, as well as Manitoba’s queer community and economy. The recipient exemplifies the values of collaboration, advocacy, and leadership, serving as a role model for fellow members. Unlike other awards, nominations are not accepted; instead, the Committee identifies a member whose impact has been especially noteworthy over the past year.
2026 Business Awards Sponsors
Thank you to our valued sponsors!
Presenting Sponsors
Canadian Queer Chamber of Commerce
Award Sponsors
Duboff Edwards Schachter Law Corporation
EMERGE Finale Sponsor
Equity & Access Sponsors
Calling all Sponsors!
Interested in sponsoring a future MQCC Annual Business Award? We are looking for sponsors to make our awards event a success. There are many ways your business can support this event and other Chamber activities.
Learn MorePast Recipients
Community Builder
Peter Wohlgemut
2021
Robynne Kazina
2020
Allan Gray
2019
Scott Carman
2018
Our Own Health
2017
Entrepreneur of the Year
Meghan Malcolm - Willow Press Books
2021
Gloria Sawatzky
2020
Alex Varricchio – UpHouse
2019
Ro Mills – Get Your Joey
2018
Kevin Selch – Little Brown Jug
2017
Employer of the Year
Tim Hortons - Jur Family Group
2021
Little Brown Jug
2020
Eadha Bread
2019
Chamber Member of the Year
Kenaston Wine Market
2021
Capital Grill
2020
Corporate Ally
Duboff, Edwards & Schachter Law
2020
RBC
2019
Home Depot
2018
APTN
2017
TD Bank Group
2016
MTS
2015
Delta Winnipeg
2014
RBC
2013
Tourism & Hospitality
Festival du Voyageur
2018
Fairmont Hotel
2017
Alt Hotel
2016
Student
Tyler Andrade
2018
Shayne Reitmeier
2017
Hayato Nakabayashi
2016
Evan Maydaniuk
2015
Evan Wiens
2014
Jared Star
2013
Trailblazer
Shandi Strong
2016
Linda Burndorfer
2015
Kenny Boyce
2014
Dick Smith
2013
Community Leader (Individual)
Michelle McHale
2016
Jonathan Niemczak
2015
Chad Smith
2013
Community Leader (Organization)
Rainbow Pride Mosaic
2016
Pride Winnipeg
2015
REEL Pride
2014
New Business
Oh Doughnuts!
2016
The Planit Restaurant & Lounge
2015
Wookey Films
2014
White Lotus Pet Spa
2014