The MQCC Business 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.

After a several-year pause, the MQCC is thrilled to bring back this celebration of our incredible community! The Business Awards Cocktail Reception will take place March 19, 2026 at  MQCC’s A6 at WAG-Qaumajuq.

The event will be hosted by Faith Fundal and will feature a drag performance by Kymera, music by The Kaptain, a raffle in support of MQCC’s newly established Equity & Access Fund, and plenty of time for networking.

The evening will also feature a celebration of the first cohort of MQCC’s EMERGE: Queer Entrepreneur Development Program, a program for Manitoba entrepreneurs in the 2SLGBTQIA+ community to gain essential business skills and strategies and build a supportive network of mentors and colleagues. The 2025-26 cohort was comprised of 15 mentees and 10 mentors, all of whom will be publicly recognized for their involvement in this pilot program.

Tickets for the 2026 MQCC Annual Business Awards Cocktail Reception are now on sale. Get your tickets today!

PURCHASE TICKETS

Award Nominations

Thank you for your interest in submitting a nomination for the 2026 MQCC Business Awards. We are no longer accepting nominations.

Recipients in each category will be notified in February and will receive a complimentary ticket to attend the event on March 19.

 

Calling all Sponsors!

Interested in sponsoring the 2026 MQCC Annual Business Awards? We are looking for sponsors to make our March awards event a success. There are many ways your business can support this event and other Chamber activities. Download our 2025-26 Sponsorship Package or contact us at info@mbqueerchamber.ca to learn more!

Sponsorship Categories

Principal Funders – Canadian Queer Chamber of Commerce, Government of Canada

Presenting Sponsor– Still available

Food & Beverage Sponsor – Still available

Award Sponsors – See below

EMERGE Finale Sponsor – RBC

Equity & Access Sponsors – Payworks, Brandidly, Prestige XP

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 Group

Honouring 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 Union

This 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 Corporation

Recognizing 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.

Know an individual, business, or organization that is deserving of one of these awards? Nominate them today!

    Thank You to our 2026 Business Awards Sponsors!

    Past Award Recipients

     

    Community Builder

      • Robynne Kazina (2020)
      • Allan Gray (2019)
      • Scott Carman (2018)
      • Our Own Health (2017)

    Entrepreneur of the Year

      • Gloria Sawatzky (2020)
      • Alex Varricchio – UpHouse (2019)
      • Ro Mills – Get Your Joey (2018)
      • Kevin Selch – Little Brown Jug (2017)

    Employer of the Year 

      • Little Brown Jug (2020)
      • Eadha Bread (2019)

    Chamber Member of the Year

      • 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 (2013)