The Huron Chamber of Commerce is excited to announce that nominations are now open for the 2024 Spirit of Success Awards, proudly presented by title sponsors Zehrs Market Goderich and Libro Credit Union. This prestigious annual event celebrates the achievements of businesses, individuals, and community organizations in Goderich, Central Huron, and North Huron, recognizing their positive impact on the community.

The awards span 14 categories, each highlighting excellence, innovation, and community spirit. Whether it’s a thriving business, a dedicated individual, or a standout event, these awards shine a spotlight on the people and organizations that help make our region a great place to live and work.

“The Spirit of Success Awards are about celebrating the people and organizations who make a difference in our community,” says Colin Carmichael, Executive Director of the Huron Chamber of Commerce. “From businesses to individuals and groups organizing impactful events, this gala is an opportunity for the community to come together and recognize their contributions. We’re excited to celebrate the best of our region this November.”

Nominations are open until September 29th, and we encourage the community to submit nominations for those who have made a difference over the past year. The winners will be revealed at our highly anticipated gala, which will take place on Friday, November 8th, at the Columbus Hall in Goderich. Tickets for the event are available now and can be purchased on Eventbrite: https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/2024-spirit-of-success-awards-gala-tickets-1012355321017?aff=news

This event is one of the Chamber’s most important and popular celebrations, bringing together people from all sectors of the community to honour those who have had a positive impact on the region.

Don’t miss your chance to nominate a deserving individual, group, or organization, and join us for an unforgettable evening of recognition and celebration!

Full Award List

Country 104.9 Community Impact Award
Nominate your favourite event from the past 12 months, whether it’s a sports event, a fundraising event, or a festival. This event, organized by a group or an individual, must have made a positive impact on the community.
Compass Minerals Environmental and Sustainability Award
Awarded to a business or organization that has been in operation for at least two consecutive years and has shown outstanding commitment to sustainable development. Criteria include self-initiated environmental actions beyond legislative requirements, energy or waste efficiencies, and environmental stewardship, education, or innovation in the past year.
John C. Grace Family Young Entrepreneur Award
Awarded to an entrepreneur aged 30 or younger who owns or manages a business or staff. The nominee must have demonstrated successful achievement of business goals and objectives and earned the respect of peers and employees through their management skills.
Downtown Goderich BIA Award
Presented to a service or not-for-profit business in the Downtown Goderich BIA district that enhances the quality of life, health, or welfare of the community through professional services in financial, health and wellness, educational, or welfare assistance.
Huron County Economic Development New Business Award
Awarded to a business that has opened within the last 18 months and has had sales for at least six months. The business must provide excellent customer service, support and training to staff, and demonstrate community-mindedness.
MicroAge Basics Service Award
Recognizes a business (non-retail, non-hospitality) that demonstrates consistent excellence in customer service leadership. The business and staff must go above and beyond to ensure customer satisfaction and provide positive incentives for excellent service.
K2 Wind Ontario Innovation Award
Awarded to any business or organization that has improved performance, increased customer/client satisfaction, or enhanced public awareness through the use of innovative products, processes, or communication technologies.
Tourism Goderich Hospitality Business Award
Recognizes a hospitality sector business that consistently demonstrates excellence in customer service, is community-minded, and always creates a special customer experience.
Zehrs Markets Retail Business Award
Recognizes a retail sector business that consistently demonstrates excellence in customer service, is community-minded, and always puts the customer’s needs first.
Huron County Economic Development Diversity Award
Recognizes a business or organization that embraces and celebrates equity and inclusion of diverse people, creating a better workplace and community.
Bazinet Family Volunteer Award
Celebrates individuals who provide selfless service to enhance the quality of life in their community. Volunteer work can be occasional or consistent, formal or informal. Nominees must live within the boundaries of the Huron Chamber of Commerce – Goderich, Central, and North Huron, and have volunteered in the past 12 months. Political advocacy and lobbying are not eligible.
Main Street Credit Union Excellence in Agribusiness Award
Recognizes a person or business in the agribusiness sector demonstrating excellence in innovation, trailblazing, and community involvement. The recipient, ranging from farming enterprises to support organizations, must show leadership, successful business practices, workplace safety, and social enterprise.
Berhan Immigration & Settlement Services Newcomer Award
Recognizes a newcomer entrepreneur who was born outside of Canada and has started a successful business in Goderich, Central, or North Huron within the past 10 years. This individual has overcome adversity, shown leadership, and demonstrated business growth. The nominee’s business must have been operating for a minimum of one year.
Huron County Economic Development Employer of Choice Award
Celebrates an employer that offers an exceptional workplace in Goderich, Central, or North Huron, demonstrating leadership in talent attraction and retention. Employees are invited to nominate their employer based on criteria such as workplace environment, social atmosphere, benefits, scheduling flexibility, communications, performance management, training, and community involvement.

Nominations are now closed.