We Choose Local is on a mission to bridge that gap and help Guelph’s locally owned businesses reach more customers and grow sales. We make it easy for consumers to find, shop, and support local businesses with the convenience of next-day delivery.
Welcome to the 2025 Guelph Awards of Excellence
4:30 – 5:45 p.m. Reception
5:45 p.m. Welcome & Introductions
5:50 p.m. Opening Remarks
6:00 p.m.
6:00 – 6:30 p.m.
6:30 – 7:00 p.m.
7:00 – 7:40 p.m.
FIRST COURSE
Innovation Award presented by TD Commercial Bank
Not-for-Profit of the Year Award presented by Bell
Young Professional of the Year Award presented by University of Guelph
MAIN COURSE
Customer Service Award presented by CN Rail
Sustainability Award presented by Conestoga College
Emerging Business Award presented by Scotiabank Difference Maker Award
7:40 – 8:10 p.m. DESSERT
8:10 – 8:40 p.m.
Volunteer of the Year Award presented by Skyline
Frank Hasenfratz Award of Excellence presented by City of Guelph Economic Development and Tourism
Lifetime Achievement Award presented by RBC Royal Bank
8:40 – 8:50 p.m.
Closing Remarks
Thank you to the Delta Hotels Guelph Conference Centre for their hospitality this evening.
Congratulations finalists!
Congratulations to all the finalists of the Guelph Chamber of Commerce Awards of Excellence! Your dedication, innovation, and commitment to excellence shines brightly across every category. Each of you represents the heart of our community - from the young professionals and volunteers to the emerging businesses, from the innovators to the non-profits - you are the heart and fuel to Guelph’s vibrant local economy.
This year, we are especially honoured to present the Lifetime Achievement Award to Jerry Trochta whose journey began with a small family business that has since grown into a thriving legacy. This story is a powerful reminder that every business starts small, and it underscores the vital role that small businesses play in building and sustaining our local economy. These SME’s are the backbone of Guelph, creating jobs, fostering innovation, and strengthening the fabric of our community.
We would also like to extend our deepest gratitude to the generous sponsors of this event. Your support makes these celebrations possible and directly contributes to the success and growth of our local business community. Sponsorship is not only a valuable partnership but also a meaningful way to give back to the community, showcasing your brand as a committed champion of Guelph’s economic and social well-being. Thank you for your investment, your belief in local excellence, and for helping us shine a spotlight on the remarkable achievements of our business leaders.
As we celebrate all finalists and winners alike, we are reminded that your success is a source of pride and inspiration for us all. Here’s to your continued growth, innovation, and impact - together, you are building a stronger future for Guelph.
Innovation Award
This award recognizes a business or organization that has been in operation for a minimum of one year, and has created, invented, or developed an innovative product, process, or service that has resulted in a measurable and significant increase in revenue or job creation, productivity or quality, reduction in cost, and/or improvements in service.
Barrantes & Associates Inc.
By playing a vital role in improving the quality of life for those they serve, Barrantes & Associates Inc. is progressively helping innovate how services are managed and delivered throughout the social services sector. Specializing in care for individuals with disabilities and complex needs, Barrantes & Associates Inc. is at the forefront of developmental services with their custom-built app that helps streamline real-time scheduling, communication, and client care. The app has already enhanced operational efficiency and job satisfaction locally, reducing administrative workloads and eliminating service gaps for staff. This innovative platform is leading the improvement of technology integration within the social services industry and is empowering frontline workers with safe and convenient solutions.
MANTECH
MANTECH is transforming water, soil, and healthcare analysis with high tech, sustainable software that delivers more efficient, greener, and accurate results in over 52 countries. Since 2020, their in-house development of autonomous analyzers, IOT infrastructure, and SMART software has led to a fourfold increase in revenue for the organization. While working alongside various universities, a key collaboration with the University of Guelph resulted in developing and patenting a new method for measuring carbon in soil and further improving carbon sequestration efforts. MANTECH continues to ensure that their customers have both a positive sustainable and economic impact within their businesses and in their communities.
The Poop Valet Pet Waste Removal
Operating across Guelph, Kitchener, Waterloo, and Ayr, The Poop Valet Pet Waste Removal team delivers high-quality dog waste cleanup services for both residential and commercial clients. Through sustainable practices and an innovative service model, founders Rick and Sherry Couchman have captured strong community interest and have seen their organization grow rapidly, achieving $100,000 by their second year of business. Beyond the day-to-day operations, The Poop Valet team continues to give back a percentage of their revenue to Partners with Paws and actively partners with local dog rescue organizations each year. The Poop Valet continues to set a new standard for service-based businesses in the pet care industry.
Not-for-Profit of the Year Award
This award recognizes and celebrates a local not-for-profit that demonstrates thoughtful and innovative leadership. This organization makes exceptional contributions to the Guelph community through their initiatives and programs.
Guelph Hiking Trail Club
Established in 1972, the Guelph Hiking Trail Club continues to maintain over 100 kilometers of scenic hiking trails throughout Guelph and surrounding areas. They aim to provide opportunities for people of all ages to enjoy and explore the outdoors while fostering an appreciation for local ecosystems and environmental stewardship. In addition to trail maintenance and membership, the Guelph Hiking Trail Club is actively finding ways to enhance trail access such as through their PaRx program and offering a range of guided hike experiences for all levels. They continue to advocate for their offerings by collaborating with other non-profits such as GORBA, GCAT, G2G and Urban Park Guelph in raising funds for bridge connections, trail construction, and preserving local history.
The Nightingale Centre For Grieving Children, Youth & Families
Since 2019, The Nightingale Centre for Grieving Children, Youth, and Families has been rooted in the belief that no child or family should grieve alone. The Nightingale Centre offers no-cost programs including peer support groups, in-home visits, grief education, and community outreach to young people and their families experiencing loss. Their inclusive approach recognizes that grief affects everyone differently and meets families where they are—with warmth, dignity, and care. From partnering with schools to launching innovative in-person programs, The Nightingale Centre has supported over 1,000 individuals, many from marginalized or single-parent households. Through visionary leadership and a strong volunteer network, they continue to transform grief support, empowering families to heal through community, connection, and hope.
Wyndham House
For over 50 years, Wyndham House has been a driving force in the fight to end youth homelessness in the Guelph-Wellington region. Serving youth aged 16 to 25, Wyndham House provides housing and support services to those who are experiencing or are at risk of homelessness. By having an approach focusing on prevention, intervention, and long-term stability, Wyndham House has developed transitional and permanent housing solutions, a Concurrent Specialized Youth Hub and a youth emergency shelter. Recognized as a national leader in reducing youth homelessness, communities across Canada are learning from their success. Since 2018, Wyndham House has reduced chronic youth homelessness in the Guelph-Wellington region by 76%. As a result of their efforts, GuelphWellington has the potential to end youth homelessness in a matter of months, not years.
Young Professional of the Year Award
This award recognizes and celebrates the achievements of an individual 35 years of age or younger (at the time of nomination) who has tackled the challenges of entrepreneurship and/or has demonstrated leadership or professional growth in their field.
Hillary Pagnucco
Divide and Conquer Personal Concierge Services
As the founder and CEO of Divide and Conquer Personal Concierge Services, Hillary Pagnucco has transformed her passion for helping others into a thriving, client-centered concierge service that fills a growing need in the community. Since launching her business in 2017, it has grown to include 13 employees serving Guelph and surrounding communities as well as establishing a branch in her hometown of Sault Ste. Marie. Hillary embodies visionary leadership, the entrepreneurial spirit, and an unwavering commitment to professional growth. As the recipient of multiple awards, Hillary’s philanthropic vision has guided her business to donate over 35 hours of services to local organizations and as her business grows, she continues to find innovative ways to serve her clients.
Jessica Gingrich
Eramosa Physiotherapy Associates
In 2023, Eramosa Physiotherapy Associates (EPA) welcomed Jessica Gingrich for her orthopedic placement—an experience that left a lasting impact. Jessica stood out for her empathy, professionalism, and ability to connect with clients across all ages. Recognizing a gap in pediatric physiotherapy in the community, Jessica proposed a new service—EPA4Kids— to address long wait times and limited access to care. After discussions with the team, the program was launched, leveraging existing infrastructure to improve community access through insurancecovered care. While studying for her Ontario Clinical Exams, Jessica worked across multiple clinics, pursued post-graduate pediatric training, and engaged in mentorship to grow her skills. Her initiative, clinical insight, and leadership have been instrumental in establishing a vital new service. Her drive and vision mark her as a rising leader in physiotherapy and a strong advocate for accessible pediatric care.
Customer Service Award
This award recognizes a business or organization that has demonstrated a commitment to providing high-quality customer service and customer experience. This business or organization continues to make exceptional contributions to Guelph by promoting and fostering a safe and inclusive environment for all.
One Tooth Activewear
One Tooth Activewear is a beloved, locally owned activewear store in Guelph, offering a thoughtful selection of Canadian-made brands for both men and women. Since opening in 2015, they’ve created a personalized shopping experience, whether in-store or online. Beyond retail, One Tooth is deeply committed to the community, supporting local charities like Guelph Wellington Mental Health and Hope House, and collaborating with local gyms and the University of Guelph on exclusive merchandise. Renowned for their exceptional customer service and top-quality products, One Tooth creates a warm, inclusive environment that truly reflects the strong community spirit of Guelph.
Park Creative
Park Creative, founded by Theo Peirson and Rachel Woodcock in 2022, is a design studio specializing in branding, web design, and visual communication. With a heart for personalized service, they take a hands-on approach to every project, ensuring close collaboration with clients and crafting solutions that truly reflect their clients’ unique vision. Park Creative dedicates their full attention to each project and builds a supportive network with clients, fellow entrepreneurs, and creatives. They deeply value inclusivity, diversity, and support for businesses of all backgrounds, from women-led to minority-owned.
Platters Catering & Events
For over 14 years, Platters Catering & Events has been an integral part of the Guelph community. The dedicated team goes above and beyond to make every event truly unforgettable, whether it’s a corporate gathering or a wedding celebration. With a focus on excellence and a family-like atmosphere, Platters empowers each employee to contribute, grow, and deliver the best. With a true taste for perfection, Platters creates memorable experiences, one event at a time. Their unwavering commitment to both their clients and team makes Platters a perfect recipe for success and exceptional service.
Member Referral Program
1 Identify a colleague, friend, or client who would benefit from joining the Chamber
3 Our membership representative will contact the referred business (please let them know you referred them)
Did you know that Guelph Chamber members can receive a $50 credit towards their next membership renewal, when they refer a new member. Find out how you can add a friend and add savings!
2 Email your referral (their name, company name, email, and phone number) to our team here.
4 If your referral joins the Chamber within 90 days of receiving the referral and pays for one full year of membership dues, you’ll receive a $50 credit towards your upcoming membership renewal
Reach out to calvin@guelphchamber.com with any questions or to
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*Cannot be combined with another offer. *Subject to change.
Sustainability Award
This award recognizes a business or organization that has showcased an outstanding commitment to sustainability through operations, development, or processes. This business or organization has self-initiated environmental actions and programs beyond legislative requirements, found energy or waste efficiencies, and/or, provided environmental stewardship, education, innovation in the past year, or contributed to one or more of the United Nation’s SDGs (Sustainable Development Goals).
SV Law
Proudly serving the community for over 25 years, SV Law delivers high quality, personalized legal services to individuals and businesses alike. With a commitment to integrating sustainable, eco-friendly practices into both their operations and community efforts, SV Law has made an impact on a local, national, and global scale. Through paperless systems and energy-efficient office designs, SV Law continues to work towards reducing their corporate carbon footprint and support legal reforms for environmental protection. By incorporating sustainability into their operations and supporting the community, SV Law’s sustainability efforts demonstrate the importance of corporate responsibility and their commitment to a greener future.
Terra View Custom Homes
Operating for over 30 years, Terra View Custom Homes is a recognized leader in building award-winning, sustainable homes across Guelph and Southwestern Ontario. Spearheading custom and Net Zero Ready homes, Terra View’s holistic approach is dedicated to keeping the needs of home purchasers and commitment to the planet at the forefront of their operations. Having developed Guelph’s first fully Net Zero Ready communities, Terra View continues to build practices that reduce both their environmental impact and their homeowners’ carbon footprints. As a six-time GDHBA Green Builder of the Year and 2024 ENERGY STAR Canada award winner, Terra View aims to create sustainable communities alongside strategic partnerships to create homes that save money, protect health, and benefit the planet.
Zavvy Cleaners Inc.
Offering cleaning services to the community’s commercial and residential spaces, Zavvy Cleaners has adopted eco-friendly products into their everyday practices to create healthier indoor and outdoor environments for the community. Zavvy Cleaners uses modern equipment, such as high-efficiency HEPA filtration vacuums and steam cleaners, in addition to paperless practices for communication. By continuing to offer green cleaning solutions to their customers, Zavvy Cleaners prioritizes sustainable cleaning technologies and biodegradable products to provide high quality services to improve their carbon footprint.
Emerging Business Award
This award recognizes an entrepreneur or organization engaged in exciting and/or new ventures. This entrepreneur or organization has a focus on the potential for future growth, customer service, and innovation. The recipient of this award can only have been in business for 3 years or less.
DBL CRS Sim Lounge
DBL CRS Sim Lounge made the shift from a clothing brand to a high-tech indoor golf lounge in 2024, bringing something truly special to Guelph. They’ve partnered with local gems like Lost Aviator Coffee, Cafe 245, and Royal City Brewing to create a warm, community-driven space. With golf simulation bays, delicious food and drinks, and exceptional customer service, DBL CRS quickly earned a 5-star Google rating. They continue to grow by offering leagues, lessons, and corporate events, while embracing new technologies - teeing themselves up for a bright future.
Franchise To World
Franchise To World is making waves with its innovative approach to franchising. In its first year, the company has successfully partnered with brands like Bricks 4 Kidz and Kati Roll Wala, helping them grow their franchise networks. Franchise To World simplifies the franchising journey with personalized guidance, insightful data, and educational content, making it easier for both new and experienced investors to navigate. With no service fees and a focus on empowering entrepreneurs, Franchise To World is redefining the industry, setting itself up for exciting growth and a bright future in the global franchising market.
We Choose Local
In less than three years, We Choose Local has quickly become a true leader in innovation, growth, and customer care. Their e-commerce platform makes it easy for shoppers to discover unique local products, with next-day delivery and a personal touch through handwritten thank-you notes. By helping retailers expand their reach and donating 1% of transaction fees to local charities, they’re making supporting local businesses both simple and impactful. We Choose Local also partners with co-op students from the University of Guelph, nurturing the next generation of communityminded leaders. With a vision to empower North American communities, We Choose Local is changing how we shop locally.
Difference Maker Award
This award recognizes an individual or an organization that has made a positive difference in the Guelph community in the past year. This individual or organization continues to demonstrate leadership in the community, strives to make the community better, and has a vision of economic and social prosperity and inclusivity.
ArtMed
Founded in 2014 by Dr. Mary Peirson and her sister Jane Watson, ArtMed is a nonsurgical medical aesthetics clinic committed to delivering natural, artistic results through a comprehensive range of treatments, advanced clinical and technological expertise, and exceptional customer service. The clinic supports the Guelph community through student co-op placements, partnerships with local businesses, and charitable contributions. ArtMed maintains high public health standards, emphasizing follow-up and continuity of care with every client. As a Rainbow Health Ontario provider, ArtMed offers a safe, inclusive space for the LGBTQ+ community and invests in technology to treat all skin tones and conditions.
Guelph Soccer Club
With a mission to “strengthen the community of Guelph through the joy of soccer”, the Guelph Soccer Club, provides quality soccer programming to ensure everyone has the opportunity to grow and be physically active. The Club’s inclusive soccer programming has reached over 5,800 participants annually. Over the past year, the Club partnered with Autism Ontario, Special Olympics, and additional local services to offer tailored programs within the community. Their She Can Coach program boosted female coaching participation by 72%, reflecting their commitment to equity and inclusion. The Guelph Soccer Club continues to work alongside partners such as The Children’s Foundation and the Rotary Club Guelph Wellington to fundraise and offer program subsidies to local families to ensure access to the sport.
Meridian Credit Union
As Ontario’s largest credit union, and second largest in Canada, Meridian Credit Union is guided by their purpose of “helping you achieve your best life”. Meridian’s three local branches empower individuals and businesses to reach their goals, support the prosperity of the Guelph community, and provide members with access to expert advice and financial resources whenever needed. Meridian highly values supporting local not-for-profits through financial support, but more importantly through the volunteer time spent by Meridian employees. Working towards creating a community where economic and social prosperity are accessible to all, Meridian continues to seek partnerships with likeminded local organizations, to create a sustainable and prosperous future for the Guelph community.
Volunteer of the Year Award
This award recognizes an individual(s) who has made positive contributions to the community through volunteering with local organizations.
Brian Redden
While many heroes wear capes, Brian Redden suits up with gloves to provide comfort and care to the smallest animals in our community. Spending time as a Small Animal Socializer at the Guelph Humane Society, Brian is devoted to enriching and socializing GHS’s small animals, in addition to recently expanding his time into Small Animal Room Cleaning. Brian has become a valued member of the GHS team and his presence has helped some of their most nervous small animals come out of their shell. Brian’s impact extends beyond the animals he cares for, as his presence continues to brighten the days of the GHS team.
Dhruv Shah
A pillar of community involvement, Dhruv Shah devotes his time and energy to a range of causes, embodying what it means to give back. As a dedicated Guelphite, Dhruv has been a passionate volunteer and leader across numerous local initiatives from environmental efforts and community fundraisers, to serving as a board member for Hope House Guelph and the Guelph Community Foundation. Inspired by the values of service and community, Dhruv’s commitment to his community has founded his vision of “the world is one family”.
“One of the greatest gifts you can give is your time.”
Frank Hasenfratz Award of Excellence
Established in 2022 in memory of Frank Hasenfratz, the Frank Hasenfratz Award of Excellence celebrates an organization or individual who embodies business excellence and the entrepreneurial spirit.
Blais Electric
With a vision to transform the trades through respect, craftsmanship, and community, Ami Dehne and Patrick Blais founded Blais Electric with a “fail fast, learn faster” ambition. Guided by a people-first culture, Blais Electric has built their reputation on high standards of professionalism, workmanship, and community impact. By offering opportunities for co-op students and apprenticeships, they help develop skills in projects ranging from standard wiring to sustainable builds. Blais Electric has found a balance between nurturing talent and maintaining high standards, while creating an innovative environment with successful client outcomes. They continue to receive enthusiastic referrals from the community and are working alongside other contractors and small businesses to help raise industry standards.
Desillus Solutions
Founded in 2017 by Dipika Shaw, Desillus Solutions supports inventors, patent agents, attorneys, and law firms with high-quality intellectual property and industrial design patent drawings. The company encourages clients to bring their innovative ideas to life through detailed, professional illustrations, and offers collaborative brainstorming sessions to help refine concepts and navigate patent application requirements. At the heart of Desillus Solutions is a commitment to supporting their clients throughout the process, reflected in their transparent communication and user-friendly platform that allows clients to track project progress and stay connected with the team. Looking ahead, they are focused on expanding geographically, broadening their industry reach, and integrating emerging technologies such as AI and advanced design tools to stay at the forefront of the field.
Wisdom’s Jewellers
Wisdom’s Jewellers was born from the desire to create meaningful, custom-designed jewelry when no fitting resource could be found. Under the leadership of Justin Wisdom, Wisdom’s Jewellers is a leading name in bespoke engagement rings and wedding bands, with an emphasis on exceptional craftsmanship, integrity, and client-focused services. Their people-first approach has earned consistent 5-star reviews and lasting client relationships built on trust and care. By redefining the jewelry experience through bringing meaning and individuality into every design, Wisdom’s Jewellers has become a benchmark for excellence in their industry. Their commitment to celebrating life’s milestones with elegance and purpose continues to elevate standards and inspire deep loyalty in their customers.
JERRY TROCHTA
Lifetime Achievement Award
presented by
Jerry Trochta’s journey is one of resilience, innovation, and deep community commitment. After immigrating from Czechoslovakia in 1968 with her husband Kamil, they established Kamil Juices (now KJ Urban Winery) in Guelph in 1981, sourcing European grape juices to craft their wines. In 1998, they founded Cox Creek Cellars with the mission to produce wines from 100% Ontario-based fruit, but in a traditional European style.
At a time when women were rarely seen in leadership roles in the wine industry, Jerry broke through barriers and became a trailblazer, not just for women, but for anyone looking to innovate and lead. Her influence has helped shape the Ontario wine landscape, and her wines have earned numerous accolades for their quality and authenticity.
The leadership that Jerry has demonstrated in the wine industry has simply been remarkable. As a founding member of both the Ontario Fruit Wine Association and the Canadian Fruit Wine Association, Jerry has extended her leadership to help establish the framework for fruit-based wines in Canada. She’s mentored students from the University of Guelph to help shape the next generation of winemakers and played a key role in launching the “Ferment on Premise” movement, making wine creation more accessible to the public.
Beyond her accomplishments in winemaking, Jerry has made remarkable contributions to her community by offering her property in support of charitable initiatives close to her heart, including the Canadian Cancer Society, Taste of Guelph, Women in Crisis, the Fergus Highland Games, the International Plowing Match, among many others. Her generosity goes far beyond her donations; she has invested her time, expertise, and energy to ensure each event is a success.
Jerry’s story is one of vision, perseverance, and purpose. Her legacy includes not only award-winning wines and a thriving business, but a community uplifted by her leadership, mentorship, and unwavering generosity.
Join us for a day of fun, friendly competition, and the opportunity to make valuable connections at our annual Chamber Cup, held at the beautiful Ariss Valley Golf & Country Club.
Get your business on course...
WITH THE 2025 CHAMBER CUP.
Date: Thursday, September 4th, 2025
Time: 12pm Registration and Lunch, Shotgun start at 1:30pm, 18 holes & buffet dinner
Venue: Ariss Valley Golf & Country Club
$185 +HST per golfer
$740.00 +HST per foursome
This is your chance to showcase your golf swing while keeping your brand front and center - all within a laid-back and inviting environment. Whether you're looking to ‘play your best networking game’ or simply enjoy the competition of the game, this event provides the perfect setting to do both.
Beyond the fairways, you'll have a unique chance to connect and network with fellow professionals from various industries, fostering valuable relationships that can extend well beyond the course. Engage in some friendly, lighthearted competition that adds excitement without pressure, creating memorable moments alongside your peers.
Don’t miss this chance - secure your foursome today and prepare for an unforgettable day filled with meaningful connections, spirited competition, and plenty of fun. Join us on the greens for an experience that blends business and pleasure.
To learn more, contact events@guelphchamber.com or 519 822-8081
Reach out to chloe@guelphchamber.com with any questions about sponsorship.
