Burns Lake Sponsors 2025 Business Excellence Award

The Village of Burns Lake has committed to sponsoring a business award through the local Chamber of Commerce. During a regular council meeting on December 9, 2023, officials approved a budget allocation of $250 to support the initiative, which will be drawn from surplus funds. Council members have also authorized staff to plan for future sponsorships, although any additional expenditures will require further review and approval.

While it has not yet been determined which specific award the village will sponsor, the Chamber of Commerce is actively inviting nominations for the 2025 Business Excellence Awards. Nominations are open until December 31, 2023, with the winners set to be revealed at a gala on January 31, 2026. The venue for the event has yet to be announced.

Sponsorship opportunities for the awards are available at several levels, including Platinum for $3,000, Gold for $2,000, Silver for $1,000, Bronze for $500, and an Award sponsorship for $250. Admission to the gala dinner is priced at $30.

The Chamber of Commerce encourages nominations from its members, who are in good standing. Currently, there are over 110 members across various categories, including Recreation, Leisure and Hospitality; Resource Industry; Retail; Not-For-Profit; Services; and Institutional and Government. A total of 11 awards will be presented, including categories such as Business of the Year, New Business of the Year, Indigenous Business of the Year, and Outstanding Employee of the Year.

In recommending the council allocate funds for sponsorship, staff evaluated the financial, environmental, climate change, and social responsibility implications. The recommendation noted that the only financial consideration involves the $250 sponsorship cost, along with the dinner expenses for any representatives from the village. Importantly, it stated that there are no environmental or climate change implications associated with this expenditure.

The council emphasized that supporting local business recognition plays a crucial role in enhancing community economic resilience. This initiative aligns with the council’s commitment to fostering a vibrant commercial sector within Burns Lake. The decision reflects a broader aim of promoting business success and community involvement, contributing to the overall economic health of the region.