Portage Chamber Celebrates Business Excellence at Annual Awards Gala

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The Portage la Prairie and District Chamber of Commerce honoured local businesses and organizations at its annual Best Business Awards this week, celebrating excellence and community contributions.

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Apex Aesthetics, Prairie Pregnancy Support Centre, Roasts and Toasts Mobile Beverage Services, artist Annie Beach, and RHCS IT Services were among those recognized for their achievements in categories spanning from community impact to entrepreneurial success.

Stephanie Dunn, the chamber’s executive director, praised the diversity and resilience of the local business community.

“We had a diverse and expansive list of nominees, each and every one deserving of recognition,” said Dunn. “It’s always super humbling to go through all the nominations and whittle it down to three for each category. It’s a reminder of how strong our business community is. We’re so lucky here because we have so many services and options. It’s easy to forget that amidst negativity, but events like this shine a light on just how special our business community truly is.”

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The winners included:

– Outstanding Contribution to the Community: Apex Aesthetics

– Outstanding Not-for-Profit Organization: Prairie Pregnancy Support Centre

– Outstanding New Entrepreneur: Roasts and Toasts Mobile Beverage Services

– Suta Kachicha Best Urban Indigenous Business: Local artist Annie Beach

– Business of the Year: RHCS IT Services

Dunn noted a growing optimism in the local economy, with a significant uptick in business activity.

“We’ve seen roughly a 30 per cent increase in the last quarter of individuals applying for business loans and seeking resources to open businesses in Portage la Prairie,” she said. “A lot of these inquiries are from newcomers to Canada, which highlights the importance of welcoming immigrants and supporting minority groups. These individuals are coming with strong ideas and a desire to lay down roots, which is vital for our community’s growth.”

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The gala, featuring profile videos of the nominees, also provided a platform for networking and collaboration among attendees.

“It’s such a fun event and a great opportunity for like-minded individuals to connect,” Dunn added. “Every year, people leave saying, ‘I didn’t know they offered this service.’ It’s a fantastic way to spread the word and remind everyone that Portage is open for business—and our entrepreneurs and business owners are here to stay.”

The annual celebration highlights the chamber’s commitment to fostering a vibrant and inclusive business environment in Portage la Prairie.

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