The Heart of Business Awards return on April 18, 2026, for an unforgettable evening celebrating the people, businesses, and organizations that keep our community thriving. Join us as the Red Carpet opens at 5:00 pm, setting the stage for a night of connection, recognition, and celebration. Nominations open February 2 and close March 13, so start thinking now about who you’ll nominate. Ticket sales will be announced soon. With last year’s event selling out in under a week, we’re ensuring nominees have the opportunity to secure tickets before they’re gone. Save the date, you won’t want to miss this.
Check out some highlights from the 2025 Heart of Business Awards below, and be sure to click the link to view the full gallery. These moments were beautifully captured by Rayme Thomson, whose talent for storytelling through the lens brings the energy, emotion, and elegance of the evening to life.
Chamber Champion Award
Express Weekly News
Samantha Hampton
Young Entrepreneur Award
Nikki Chapnick- Lakeside Law
Brittany Yahiro- Sandy Paw's Grooming
Dayna Pull - Your Pull to Wellness
Marshall Marks- Marshall Marks Fitness
Tourism & Hospitality Excellence Award
Carlos Cucina
Beach Boy Restaurant
Whytewold Emporium
Interlake Brewing Co.
Kahleigh’s Brew Barn
Community Volunteer of the Year
Debbie Fakes
Peter & Susan Holfeuer
Romanna Klymkiw
Pat Nuspl
Pam Isfeld
Susan Bauernhuber
Trades in Action Award
Ken Laurie
Silver Lining Stitchery
Innovative Electric
BVC Electric
Leadership in Diversity & Inclusion
Spruce Sands RV Resort
Prairie Gal Fishing
Agriculture & Fisheries Achievement Award
Minerva Tree Farms Landscape and Nursery
Bruce’s Marine
Bar-Z Beef
After Hours Business Award
Ian Prise- Prise Fishing
Sara Rodriguez, Pam Sutyla, & Crystal Hjorleifson - Triple Bloom Catering
Sarah Markwart- 15 Minutes of Fame Karaoke
2026 Heart of Business Award Nominees
Entrepreneur of the Year
Lenore Chartrand - Heaven Scents Flowers & Gifts
Panagiotis Makiaris - Beach Boys Restaurant
Kim Kristofferson Magnusson - Johnson’s Fashion
Chad Ermel - Flatland Coffee Roasters
Graeme Maclean - Interlake Brewing Co.
Don Fletcher - Bond Invention House
Non-Profit Organization of the Year
Manitoba Animal Alliance
Interlake Counselling and Resource Centre
Gimli Art Club
Evergreen Basic Needs
Legacy of Impact Award
Adam Stringer
Westshore Community Foundation
M&J Auto Parts
Corey Palsson
Interlake Impact Award
Rayme Thomson
Brenna Philp
Brittany Isfeld
Mad Hatter's Award
This award is announced at the event.
Why Your Nomination Matters
A nomination is more than a form, it’s a powerful moment of recognition. Taking the time to nominate a business, organization, or individual tells them their work is seen, valued, and appreciated. For many nominees, this acknowledgment creates a lasting emotional and mental impact: it builds confidence, renews motivation, and affirms that the long hours, challenges, and commitment to community truly matter. Being nominated, and potentially recognized on stage, can strengthen morale, boost pride, and remind recipients why they do what they do. Your words have the power to uplift, encourage, and celebrate the people who help our community thrive.
