The MQCC Business Awards

Since 2016, 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 2026 MQCC Annual Business Awards will be accepted until January 31, 2026. Recipients in each category will be notified in February and will receive a complimentary ticket to attend MQCC’s Awards Event on March 19, 2026 at the Winnipeg Art Gallery. There we will honour MQCC Business Awards recipients and celebrate the completion of the first cohort of our EMERGE program. The event will also include food, drink, performances, and plenty of time for networking!

MAKE A NOMINATION TODAY!

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!

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

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

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

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!

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)