The Castlegar & District Chamber of Commerce Business Awards took place on Saturday, November 8, 2025, celebrating the outstanding businesses, organizations, and individuals who make our community so vibrant and successful. It was an evening to honor innovation, leadership, exceptional customer service, and community spirit—shining a spotlight on those who go above and beyond. Scroll down to see highlights from the event, including photos and a full list of this year’s award recipients!

Castlegar & District Chamber of Commerce Staff Team
Left to Right: Cym Lamont, Tammy Verigin-Burk, Diana Quisobony, Andrea Miller, Ashley Costa and Christina Allen

Photography by: Yolone Art Group & Moving Target Photo

Business Person of the Year Award
Sponsored by: Kalawsky Auto Group
Winner: Harold Chernoff | Trowelex Rentals & Sales

Business Excellence Award
Sponsored by: Ernie’s Used Auto Parts
Winner: Bill’s Heavy Duty Enterprises 2004 Ltd

Customer Service Excellence Award
Sponsored by: Kootenay Career Development Society
Winner: Crumbs Bakery Café

The Green Award
Sponsored by: Nupqu Resource Limited Partnership
Winner: Selkirk College

Professional Service Award
Sponsored by: Mercer Celgar
Winner: Chris Trudeau Law Corporation

Contractor of the Year Award
Sponsored by: Teck Trail Operations
Winner: Horvath Contracting and Design Ltd.

Tourism Development Award
Sponsored by: Sandman Hotel
Winner: Communities in Bloom

Young Entrepreneur Award
Sponsored by: Assante Wealth Management
Winner: Sewken Oberoi | SevAura & Silver Birch Clinic

Community Social Award
Sponsored by: StellerVista Credit Union
Winner: Castlegar Arts Council

Home Based Business Award
Sponsored by: Bill’s Heavy Duty Enterprises Ltd
Winner: Sentinel Meats

Restaurant of the Year Award
Sponsored by: Assante Wealth Management
Winner: MapleMirch

Manager of the Year Award
Sponsored by: Trowelex Rentals & Sales
Winner: Jason Wills | Andrew Sheret Limited

Innovator of the Year Award
Sponsored by: FortisBC
Winner: Kalesnikoff Mass Timber

Director’s Choice Award
Sponsored by: Doane Grant Thornton LLP
Winner: Kootenay Savings

Lifetime Achievement Award
Sponsored by: City of Castlegar
Winner: Mallard’s Source For Sports