2025 GVC Business Excellence Awards
Business award winners
Business leaders from across the greater Vernon area were honoured for their excellence last week.
Awards were presented at the 41st annual Greater Vernon Chamber of Commerce Business Excellence gala, hosted at the Vernon and District Performing Arts Centre on Oct. 23.
More than 300 local residents filled the arts centre, which was hosted by local radio personalities.
“The atmosphere was electric, highlighting the importance of recognizing the dedication, innovation, and passion that drives the North Okanagan region," said chamber executive director Sonja Harkness. "The chamber extends its sincere thanks to all sponsors, particularly presenting sponsor Kal Tire, and the entire community for their unwavering support of local business."
The winners of the 19 awards are:
- Large business of the year- The Rise Resort
- Restaurant of the year- The Edge at The Rise Resort
- Medium business of the year- Rusty Spur Farm, Feed and Pet
- Employer of the year- Rusty Spur Farm, Feed and Pet
- Small business of the year- Raven Hair Studio
- Agri-business excellence- Silverstar Veggies
- Diversity excellence- CMHA Vernon and District Branch
- Non-profit of the year- Community Dental Access Centre
- Business leader of the year- Deb White with White House Mortgages
- Professional business of the year- Steve Braun Coaching and Counselling
- Young entrepreneur of the year- Raising Stars Pre-school
- Trades business of the year- Applewood Heating and Air Conditioning
- Retail business of the year- Kaleco Clothing
- New business of the year- Rise Gymnastics
- Tourism excellence- Grace and Flow Events
- Customer service excellence- Dr. Phone Fix
- People's choice award (business)- Braden Kipp- Physiotherapist
- People's choice award (non-profit)- The Halina Activity Centre
- Chamber champion award- Tourism Vernon
Proving you are never too young to get a start in business, 11-year-old Myrissa Henke was awarded an honourable mention for the people's choice award, which garnered the most applause in the night. Henke operates a slushy stand at the Vernon Teach and Learn.
