Greater Victoria Business Awards Finalists Highlight Resilience and Innovation Amid Economic Challenges
Victoria, BC – The Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce has announced the finalists for the 2026 Greater Victoria Business Awards, showcasing remarkable companies and leaders committed to growth and innovation despite the economic pressures affecting many industries today.
This year’s finalists embody resilience, reflecting how businesses can thrive even when faced with adversity. As the Chamber noted in its press release, these organizations have been recognized for their outstanding contributions in areas of customer service, entrepreneurship, leadership, and innovation. The awards program spans 12 categories, celebrating the diverse array of contributions made by businesses—both large and small—as well as non-profits and community leaders.
An independent panel of judges from Greater Victoria’s business sector meticulously selected the finalists, ensuring a fair evaluation process. “The nominees this year continue to set the standard for resilience and innovation, adapting to new economic realities and championing growth in Greater Victoria,” said Chamber CEO John Wilson. “Every business has faced unique challenges, and these finalists have shown creativity and commitment, helping our region thrive in changing times.”
Among the standout nominations, Core Connection Mobile Physiotherapy and Hazel’s Ice Cream are vying for Business of the Year in the one-to-10 employee category, while Gwaii Engineering and HAVN Saunas Inc. are recognized in the 11-to-39 employee group. Red Barn Market and The Parkside Hotel & Spa are in the running for the 40-plus employee category.
Personal accolades include nominees for Business Person of the Year, with Julia Huggett of Beehive Wool Shop and Trina White of The Parkside Hotel & Spa highlighting individual excellence in leadership. Moreover, Kathryn Pascuzzo of Swank Creative Inc. and Rebecca Knezacek of Eyefinery Optical Studio are contenders for Emerging Business Person of the Year.
In line with biblical principles of community and service, categories such as Community Builder of the Year recognize the vital contributions of local organizations. Nominees like Blenkinsop Community Agricultural Centre and Pacifica Housing embody the spirit of coming together to serve one another. This commitment echoes the biblical teaching in Galatians 6:2: “Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.”
Furthermore, the Innovation Award finalists, including Canadian Tire Hillside Centre and Mushroom Envy, inspire us to think creatively about solutions that can uplift the community. The emphasis on innovation aligns seamlessly with the parable of the talents (Matthew 25:14-30), where the faithful use of one’s gifts leads to multiplying blessings for oneself and the community.
As the Greater Victoria Chamber prepares for the awards ceremony on June 11, it invites the community to join in celebrating these achievements. Tickets will be available soon, alongside an announcement for the recipient of this year’s Award of Distinction.
This event serves not only as a recognition of business achievements but as a reminder of the strength that comes from collaborative efforts and shared values. As we reflect on the resilience exhibited by these finalists, let us remember the words of Proverbs 27:17: “Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another.”
Ultimately, the story of these businesses invites us to consider how our own contributions can inspire growth and support within our communities. In challenging times, let us commit to uplifting one another, remembering that through cooperation and faith, we can navigate any storm together.
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