SWCC hosts 2025 Business Excellence Awards

The Strathmore Wheatland Chamber of Commerce held the 2025 Business Excellence Awards on Jan. 17 at the Strathmore Civic Centre, recognizing many local businesses after more than 120 nominations. Winners were announced across multiple categories, and organizers said the event may expand next year to accommodate growth.

The Strathmore Wheatland Chamber of Commerce hosted the 2025 Business Excellence Awards on Jan. 17 at the Strathmore Civic Centre. The annual event celebrates nominated local enterprises across a range of categories. Cobe Royal, chair of the SWCC, said the awards recognize leadership, innovation, resilience and community impact as well as business results. Organizers noted strong interest from the community and more nominations than in past years. Event details: - The awards evening originally sold out, and the SWCC added more tables to accommodate extra attendees. - Organizers estimated more than 120 businesses were nominated across various categories. Top 5 or Top 10 nominees were often acknowledged before winners were announced due to large nomination volumes. - The board credited collaboration and the varied strengths of its members for helping coordinate the event, including promotion and nomination management. - Winners named included Community Futures Wild Rose (Non-profit of the Year), Kids Connection Daycare (New Business), Strathmore Fire Department (Community Impact), Lil Hoots (Retail), Ranch Dental (Social Media Awareness), Strathmore Bottle Depot (Environmental Leader), Rocking Horse Industries (Agricultural Business), Mia Bella Hair (Home Based Business), M Jean Jewelry (Youth Entrepreneur), Lush Realty (Volunteer of the Year), Sagestone Skin and Spa (Service Excellence), Joyland Theatre (Tourist Attraction), Ally Brigley Music Studio (Arts and Culture), and Trinity Christian Academy (Educational Hero). Summary: The ceremony highlighted a growing local business community and strong community engagement in nominations and attendance. Organizers said the event is likely to expand next year to reflect that growth and increased participation.