Kingston business awards introduce new recognition for local non-profits at 2024 event

Story by Christena Lawrie, CFRC's Broadcast Journalist & Local Journalism Initiative Reporter.

On Thursday night, the Greater Kingston Chamber of Commerce hosted the 2024 Kingston Business Awards, this year with a new category to recognize a local non-profit.

Ten awards were presented at the event at the Isabel Bader Centre for the Performing Arts recognizing local businesses, with winners decided by a volunteer committee of judges from other chambers of commerce across Canada. The new non-profit category added this year was taken home by Extend-A-Family Kingston, an organization that provides supports, services, and inclusive programming opportunities for individuals with disabilities and their families.

With a bustling and competitive business community here in Kingston, there were no repeat winners from 2023, each category sporting a new reigning champ. Some notable wins include Harlowe Green, a sustainable living store and Bulk Refillery located in Frontenac with the New Business Award. Branded To Film media took home the Arts and Culture Award, which was awarded to the Kingston Canadian Film Festival in 2023. Novelis, a world leader in aluminum rolling and recycling, was given this year's Social Impact Award.

Karen Cross, CEO of the Greater Kingston Chamber of Commerce, states, "We are thrilled to recognize exemplary models of excellence and community service by businesses and leaders in the Greater Kingston Area and the invaluable contribution they make to Kingston's economic development, unique character, and outstanding quality of life. Congratulations to all of our recipients, and thank you to the sponsors, awards committee members, judges, and many local businesses who have helped to make this event a possibility." 

For a full list of winners and more details on the event, visit kingstonchamber.ca