Celebrating Business
Success In Canada
Organised by CanadianSME Small Business Magazine
On June 20, 2025, the Metro Toronto Convention Centre came alive with energy and inspiration as it hosted the 6th Annual CanadianSME Small Business Awards, presented by Google Canada. Celebrating excellence, the Awards acknowledged the backbone of Canada’s economy, the small business sector.
This year's theme, "Thriving Together: Small Business Leadership in the AI Age," reflected the evolving landscape of entrepreneurship and the transformative power of technology. From artificial intelligence to digital transformation, the night underscored how small businesses are not only adapting but leading with purpose and vision. The evening was enriched as 29 coveted awards were presented to deserving participants.
The event brought together a vibrant community of entrepreneurs, dignitaries, and business leaders to honour the remarkable achievements of small businesses across the nation. The event was inaugurated by SK Uddin, the visionary Founder and Editor of CanadianSME Small Business Magazine, and brilliantly hosted by Anna Sinclair, celebrated pop artist, actor, casting associate, and event producer...Together, they set the tone for an evening celebrating resilience, innovation, and leadership in the small business sector.
The event was brightened by welcome addresses from the Honourable Nina Tangri, Associate Minister of Small Business, and Daniel Tisch Echevarría, President and CEO of the Ontario Chamber of Commerce.
A total of 38 prestigious awards were presented, including the coveted and newly launched CanadianSME Small Business Champion Award, which honours individuals and companies who have made lasting contributions to their industries and communities.
Government recognition added to the event’s significance. Their heartfelt reaffirmation sealed the government’s commitment to nurturing the small business ecosystem as a key driver of economic growth and innovation in Canada.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Google Canada our Presenting Partner, for its ongoing support and partnership in empowering entrepreneurs across the country. We are equally grateful to our exclusive partners:
1. RBC - Business Banking
2. Canon - Business Solutions Partner
3. Xero – Award Category Partner
4. 9thCO - Silver Partner
5. UPS - Shipping Partner
Special thanks to our sponsors who helped make this evening of recognition possible.
Sponsors - 2024
Small Business of the Year – 2024
( Up to 10 Employees)
( Up to 10 Employees)
Small Business of the Year – 2024
( Up to 50 Employees)
Business of the Year – 2024
( 50+ Employees )
Tech Business of the Year Award – 2024
Technopreneur of the Year Award – 2024
Silver Partner
Exclusive Presenting Partner
Small Business Champion
ADP
pending
Small Business Champion
Interac
pending
Small Business Champion
Visa
pending
Small Business Champion
Desjardins
pending
Small Business Champion
Mastercard
At Mastercard, we believe that small businesses are the backbone of our economy and the heart of our communities. That’s why we’re deeply committed to putting our network, technology, products, tools, and resources to work for them—every single day.
We know that when small businesses succeed, everyone benefits. That’s why we take a needs-based approach—constantly listening to small business owners, learning from their experiences, and using those insights to shape the solutions we build. Whether it’s understanding what’s working, what’s not, or where there are gaps, we’re committed to developing products, programs, and partnerships that truly make a difference for small business owners in today’s economy.
RBC Small Business
of the Year - Top 1
( Up to 10 employees )
Pharmabest.ca
Pharmabest.ca is a dynamic and growing network of independent pharmacies committed to delivering high-quality, community-based healthcare across Ontario. Founded by pharmacist Joe Saad, Pharmabest.ca has expanded rapidly since 2023 and now operates nine pharmacy locations, including Health Care Mart Pharmacy, Birchcliff Pharmacy, Yorkwoods Village Pharmacy, and Orillia Downtown Pharmacy. Each pharmacy is uniquely integrated into its local community, offering personalized service, prescription fulfillment, and clinical care.
In 2024, Pharmabest.ca launched TorontoOnlinePharmacy.pharmacy, an online platform that provides virtual pharmacist consultations and prescription delivery, expanding access to pharmacy services across the province.
Thoughts on winning the CanadianSME National Business Award
Winning this award is an incredible honor and a testament to the dedication of our team at Pharmabest.ca. It affirms the impact that small businesses can make when rooted in purpose and community care. From expanding pharmacy services to integrating addiction treatment clinics, we’ve stayed focused on innovation and service. I’m grateful to CanadianSME for recognizing our journey, and to our partners, staff, and patients for their continued trust. This award inspires us to keep striving for excellence and to grow responsibly while staying true to our mission.
A special message or advice to small business owners
Stay grounded in your values, even when challenges come your way. Success in small business isn’t just about growth—it’s about resilience, relationships, and creating meaningful impact. Build a team that believes in your mission, listen to your community, and adapt quickly. Don’t be afraid to seek advice, take smart risks, and keep learning. Every setback is a setup for a comeback. If you lead with integrity and stay committed to service, recognition and results will follow. Believe in the long game—and invest in people as much as in your business.
RBC Small Business
of the Year - Top 2
( Up to 10 employees )
Northline Motors Inc.
Northline Motors Inc. is a premier Family Owned and Operated vehicle dealership based in Vaughan, Ontario, known for its curated selection of high-end brands such as Audi, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Porsche, and Lexus. With a strong focus on quality, integrity, and customer satisfaction, we have built a solid reputation as one of the GTA’s most trusted auto retailers.
The dealership has received numerous accolades, including the Top Choice Award, recognition as one of Vaughan’s Top 3 Dealers, and designation as a Best Business in Canada by the Canadian Business Review Board. These honors reflect Northline’s commitment to excellence both in its vehicles and its customer service.
Thoughts on winning the CanadianSME National Business Award
Winning the CanadianSME National Business Award is an incredible honour and a proud milestone for our entire team. It’s a testament to the dedication, resilience, and passion we bring to our work every day. This recognition motivates us to keep raising the bar, delivering exceptional service, and creating meaningful impact within our community and industry. We’re deeply grateful to our loyal clients, supportive partners, and hardworking staff who make achievements like this possible. This award is not just a win for our business, it’s a celebration of teamwork, growth, and what’s possible when vision meets relentless effort. THANK YOU SO MUCH CANADIAN SME
A special message or advice to small business owners
To every small business owner out there: keep going. The journey isn’t easy, and there will be moments of doubt but those are the same moments that build resilience. Stay true to your vision, trust your instincts, and be patient with the process. Surround yourself with people who uplift you, and don’t be afraid to pivot or take risks. The late nights, the setbacks, the small wins they all matter. You’re building something real, something that matters. Keep showing up, because your perseverance will take you further than you think.
RBC Small Business
of the Year - Top 3
( Up to 10 employees )
Vistance Accounting
Vistance Accounting is a modern financial advisory firm dedicated to giving Canadian entrepreneurs the clarity, confidence, and strategic insight they need to grow. Founded by former investment banker Daryl Ching, Vistance specializes in bookkeeping, controller services, fractional CFO support, and capital advisory—tailored for small and mid-sized businesses, particularly those raising $3–10 million in Series A financing.
What sets Vistance apart is its commitment to being more than a service provider. The firm becomes a true financial partner, helping business owners understand their numbers, make faster decisions, and build scalable systems that support sustainable growth. Through timely reporting, forward-looking analysis, and hands-on guidance, Vistance equips entrepreneurs to lead with certainty—even in uncertain times.
Thoughts on winning the CanadianSME National Business Award
This award is testament to the success we have had in our vision: to level the playing field for small businesses. Too many small businesses fail, not because they lacked passion or drive, but because they ran out of cash and never had access to the financial expertise that could have helped them grow sustainably. That’s the gap we are here to close. We believe small businesses deserve proactive insights, financial clarity, and strategic advice, the kind that’s usually reserved for Fortune 500 companies. Beyond the numbers, we also advocate for small businesses in the media and in policy discussions.
A special message or advice to small business owners
We are truly humbled to be recognized among so many inspiring entrepreneurs and changemakers who are redefining what it means to build a business in Canada today. We use our platform to elevate our voices, push for better support structures, and challenge systems that unfairly favour larger players. Because every time a small business thrives, it creates jobs, builds community, and drives innovation in a way that ripples far beyond its balance sheet. To the small business community, this award is for you. You are the backbone of our economy, and we are proud to be in your corner.
UPS Small Business
of the Year - Top 1
( Up to 50 employees )
Otherlife
Michael Perrow is a Canadian entrepreneur whose career spans cryptocurrency, music, and digital design. Prior to his role at Otherlife, he was the founding Vice President and first employee at Hut 8 Mining, where he played a pivotal role in taking the company public – making it the first cryptocurrency firm listed on the TSX senior board and a milestone in Canada’s blockchain history.
Today, Michael leads work for industry leaders including Mastercard, Microsoft, Github, Arsenal FC, and PayPal. His focus on innovation, culture, and sustainability has helped position Otherlife as one of the world’s top creative agencies and a trusted partner in fintech and Web3.
Thoughts on winning the CanadianSME National Business Award
Winning Small Business of the Year is an incredible honour and a meaningful milestone for our team. What started as a small studio with a big vision has grown into a full-service creative agency working with global brands and innovators. This recognition validates the years of hard work, creativity, and belief we’ve poured into building Otherlife. We’re grateful to the CanadianSME Awards for spotlighting businesses like ours, and to our team, clients, and partners for being part of the journey. It’s a proud moment – not just for us, but for Canadian creativity on the global stage.
A special message or advice to small business owners
Build something you believe in. The early days won’t be easy – they rarely are – but purpose and persistence will carry you forward. Bet on yourself and your team – that belief becomes your edge. Surround yourself with people who challenge and support you. Say yes to the hard things, the weird ideas, the unproven paths. Small wins lead to momentum, and momentum becomes scale. Focus on creating value, not just revenue, and never lose sight of why you started. Your journey won’t look like anyone else’s – and that’s the point. The future belongs to those who are bold enough to shape it.
UPS Small Business
of the Year - Top 2
( Up to 50 employees )
Business Sherpa Group
Founded by Margo Crawford in 2008, Business Sherpa Group supports small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) by providing essential back-office services that simplify and strengthen their operations. We believe an organization’s size should never limit its potential. As a one-stop shop partner, we deliver flexible, embedded expertise across core business areas including Human Resources, Cloud-Based Accounting & CFO services, Managed Recruitment, and Executive Solutions.
Whether we support an SME’s existing team or become their team, Business Sherpa Group leverages experts alongside advanced technology to help SMEs improve efficiency, scale sustainably, and focus on what they do best. It’s an approach designed for real life. It’s business operations, simplified.
UPS Small Business
of the Year - Top 3
( Up to 50 employees )
The Experience Advisors
XA is a transformation firm specializing in Advisory, Implementation, Training, and Change Management. We help organizations translate strategy into action by focusing on what matters most: people. Our work spans corporate, public, and nonprofit sectors, delivering high-impact, human-centered solutions that drive real results.
We design connected experiences across five core domains—Customer (CX), Employee (EX), Learner (LX), User (UX), and Citizen (ZX). This integrated approach allows us to align internal culture, service design, leadership development, and digital tools into cohesive strategies that improve both performance and experience.
Your thoughts on winning the CanadianSME National Business Award
Receiving this honor is both humbling and energizing, inspiring us to continue growing. It validates countless hours of collaboration, creativity, and courage, reminding us that when purpose and passion align, extraordinary results follow. This award is more than a trophy; it is evidence that a clear vision, relentless curiosity, and unwavering commitment to your unique value can elevate even the smallest ventures to national recognition—as long as we remain true to our roots. We celebrate this achievement with gratitude for our team and partners, and we look forward to embracing future challenges with the same dedication and spirit and optimism.
A special message or advice to small business owners
“Success is the sum of small efforts repeated day in and day out.” — Robert Collier
The best advice I received is to stay consistent: success is not about being the smartest person in the room but about persevering with grit when others quit, learning from setbacks, and maintaining momentum. Surround yourself with people who lift you higher, stay curious about your customers’ needs, and never underestimate the power of empathy. Success is defined not by team size or budget but by the clarity of your purpose and the impact you create. Keep dreaming big and move forward every day.
The best advice I received is to stay consistent: success is not about being the smartest person in the room but about persevering with grit when others quit, learning from setbacks, and maintaining momentum. Surround yourself with people who lift you higher, stay curious about your customers’ needs, and never underestimate the power of empathy. Success is defined not by team size or budget but by the clarity of your purpose and the impact you create. Keep dreaming big and move forward every day.
Teh Business of the Year
Pathway Communications
Founded in 1995, Pathway Communications specializes in providing innovative and cost-effective IT and communication solutions for businesses of all sizes. Rooted in Canada, we offer a wide range of services, including Managed IT Services, Cybersecurity Solutions, Data Center, Cloud, Colocation, Voice, Data, and Internet, to help our clients stay connected and operate securely in today’s fast-paced world.
Pathway employs over 150 qualified and trained staff on three continents and operates fully-equipped data centers in Markham, Toronto, and Montreal. All of our services are designed to pass through our Tier III data center backed up with ISO 9001:2015, ISO 27001:2013 certification, and SOC 2 Type II compliancy for the ultimate reliability, security, and privacy. Pathway stands out due to their comprehensive suite of services, high technical expertise, and customer-centric approach.
Thoughts on winning the CanadianSME National Business Award
Winning the Tech Business of the Year award is a proud milestone for all of us at Pathway Communications. It reaffirms our commitment to innovation, service excellence, and customer-centric solutions in the managed IT and cybersecurity space. For over 30 years, we’ve supported Canadian businesses by delivering tailored solutions that solve problems efficiently. This recognition belongs just as much to our passionate team as it does to the forward-thinking clients, partners, and vendors who place their trust in us. We’re honoured, grateful, and more motivated than ever to continue driving impact across North America’s tech landscape.
A special message or advice to small business owners
I recommend that every small business owner stay focused on your purpose, invest in your people, and never stop listening to your customers. Innovation doesn’t always require big budgets. We can still thrive on resilience, adaptability, and clarity of vision. Let’s surround ourselves with those who challenge and support us, and don’t be afraid to evolve. Success is rarely overnight, but every step forward counts. So, let’s keep pushing boundaries, even when it’s hard, because that’s where progress lives. Every small business’s journey matters, and the impact we create is bigger than you think.
Indigenous Entrepreneur
of the Year
Three Sisters Consulting
We are Three Sisters Consulting! We are a training and business
development company. After 20 plus years working with the Sto:lo First
Nations people, we specialize in providing cultural sensitivity training to
other organizations. We work with Indigenous Facilitators to provide
training on best approaches and practices to working respectfully and
effectively with First Nations people. In this guide you will find our
program offerings and pricing. If you have any questions, our contact
information will be at the end of the guide.
Sarah Hopkins, Founder & Matriarch of Three Sisters Consulting
Sarah Hopkins is Turtle Clan of the Lenni Lenape who were displaced from their homeland, Lenapehoking (Modern day New York City and surrounding area) to Eelŭnaapéewi Lahkéewiit (Delaware Nation) in southwestern Ontario. Sarah is a Day School survivor who was raised by her Mother, who taught her the importance of standing up for what you believe; her Grandmother, a residential school survivor; and her Great-Grandmother, who spoke only Lenape.
These courageous and resilient women have bolstered Sarah’s desire to support and elevate Indigenous voices. With the support of her family, she founded Three Sisters Consulting in 2018, a company dedicated to amplifying the voices of Indigenous Peoples and helping them achieve business, professional, and personal success. Sarah’s role within Three Sisters Consulting is that of Matriarch – the first line of support for her ever-growing team.
Business of the Year
( 50+ Employees )
Vestacon Limited
Vestacon, founded in 2008, is a Construction Management and General Contracting firm with offices in Toronto and Vancouver. On April 9, 2024, following the retirement of the original founder, Sam Falzone, a Principal since 2009, became President & CEO.
With a career in construction dating back to 1991, Sam has been at the forefront of industry innovation and leadership. His approach, rooted in empowerment, accountability, and continuous improvement, has helped shape a culture that fuels both business success and individual growth.
Vestacon is proud to be recognized as a Best Workplace in Canada and Best Workplace in Real Estate & Construction by Great Place to Work®, and was awarded “Construction Services & General Contracting Company of the Year” at the 2025 Vaughan Chamber of Commerce Business Achievement Awards.
Your thoughts on winning the CanadianSME National Business Award
It is a true honour to be the recipient of the Canadian SME National Business of the Year award for 2024. We are honoured to be recognized for our excellence in leadership, growth and our people-first culture, which drives everything we do. To our fabulous team members, our partners and our clients, thank you! To Canadian SME Magazine, thank you for the recognition and to Canon, our award sponsor, thank you. Thank you all for being a part of our journey and success.
A special message or advice to small business owners
‘Being a business owner requires unwavering commitment and hard work. We all experience the highs, the lows and the ups and downs. It is important to never give up and to always continue to push forward. It’s important to never forget where you came from and those who helped you get there, and that when you lead from the heart you can never go wrong.” Sam Falzone, President and CEO, Vestacon Limited.
The Diversity and
Inclusion
Award
BIPOC Executive Search Inc.
BIPOC Executive Search is a Canadian-based firm committed to advancing equity, diversity, inclusion, and accessibility (EDIA), primarily through executive and professional recruitment.
To meet the evolving needs of its clients, the firm operates as an interdisciplinary organization. In addition to its core recruitment services, BES offers a comprehensive suite of products and supports, including Organizational HR and EDIA Audits, Cultural Transformation consulting, education through e-Learnings and workshops, and individual and group coaching services.
Thoughts on winning the CanadianSME National Business Award
Receiving this award from CanadianSME is a humbling affirmation of the work we do at BES Executive Search Inc. Every search, every partnership, every conversation is rooted in our belief that inclusion has the power to transform organizations—and lives. This award also belongs to every client who has partnered with us to challenge the status quo and every candidate who has trusted us with their story. Being recognized strengthens our resolve to keep moving forward, knowing that lasting change is built on trust, shared values, and the courage to lead with intention, empathy, and integrity.
A special message or advice to small business owners
Being a small business owner means learning to navigate uncertainty with grit and grace. Embrace setbacks as learning moments and celebrate perseverance as a real win. Don’t wait for ‘perfect’—act on good ideas with care and urgency. Build a supportive network that encourages your growth and holds you accountable. Financial discipline is key, but so is knowing when to take bold risks. Most importantly, don’t lose sight of the “why” behind your work. It’s your anchor when things get hard, and your north star when opportunities arise.
Technopreneur of the Year
iFinance Canada
iFinance is one of Canada’s fastest growing fintech companies, helping Canadians access services through fast, flexible monthly payment plans.
From medical and dental care to veterinary, wellness, home improvement, and more, iFinance removes cost as a barrier, making it easier for people to say yes to what matters most.
Trusted by over 12,500 service providers across the country, iFinance delivers instant approvals, upfront funding, and a seamless digital experience—backed by integrations with leading platforms like Flinks and Equifax.
The company’s commitment to innovation includes the launch of a personal loan program in partnership with Circle K, expanding access to everyday financing with convenience in mind.
Réal Breton, CEO of iFinance Canada
Réal Breton is the CEO of iFinance Canada and founder of Iceberg Finance Group. He launched the company from scratch starting with just an Excel sheet and a big vision. Today, iFinance is one of Canada’s fastest-growing fintech lenders, with over $2B in loan applications. Réal led the acquisition and digital transformation of iFinance, investing early in proprietary tech. His leadership is grounded in innovation, team collaboration, and making financing more accessible for Canadians.
Your thoughts on winning the CanadianSME National Business Award
This award is a proud moment for the iFinance team- for every developer, product lead, and team member who helped bring our vision to life. A decade ago, we invested millions into technology before issuing a single loan, because we believed the future would be digital, automated, and customer-first. That early conviction, while risky, is now paying off. Today, our platforms serve thousands across Canada with speed, transparency, and intelligence. This recognition affirms that we made the right decisions early on. We’ve come a long way, but the next decade holds even more promise. We’re just getting started.
A special message or advice to small business owners
Trust your long-term vision even when it feels too ambitious or uncertain. We built our lending platform before we had a single client. Everyone thought it was risky. But we believed in the need, the purpose, and the people behind it. You don’t need perfection to begin. You need conviction, a mission that matters, and a team that believes in it with you. Innovation doesn’t happen in isolation it comes from shared effort, humility, and resilience. Build with intention. Stay close to your purpose. Your business isn’t just about profit, it’s about solving real problems. That’s where the impact and the growth lives.
Entrepreneur of the Year
Femme Fatale Media Group Inc.
Emily Lyons is the founder and CEO of multiple successful companies, including Lyons Elite, a premier executive matchmaking firm for influential leaders, and Femme Fatale Media, an award-winning event staffing agency recognized by Forbes, the NY Post, and beyond. Over the past decade, Emily has built a multi-million dollar portfolio by identifying underserved luxury markets and redefining them with elevated, human-first experiences.
Her businesses have been trusted by Fortune 500s, celebrities, and high-net-worth individuals alike, standing out for their precision, innovation, and unmatched attention to detail. Most recently, she co-founded Tangerine, a personal branding agency empowering bold voices to become industry-defining leaders. Her work bridges connection, commerce, and impact — helping clients not only succeed, but become unforgettable.
Emily Lyons, Founder and CEO of Femme Fatale Media
Emily Lyons is a multi-venture entrepreneur, speaker, and CEO of several award-winning companies including Femme Fatale Media, Lyons Elite Matchmaking, True Glue Beauty, and Tangerine. Known for blending fierce creativity with relentless execution, Emily built her empire from a basement apartment and a broken heart—turning pain into purpose and setbacks into startups. Her work has been featured in Forbes, Inc., Global News, and more, and she’s recognized for championing clean beauty, high-end matchmaking, and the power of personal brand. When she’s not building world-class businesses, she’s mentoring founders, giving back to causes close to her heart, and chasing after four very energetic dogs.
Thoughts on winning the CanadianSME National Business Award
Winning this award felt like a full-circle moment. I started my first business out of pure necessity, with zero funding, no business plan, just a ton of grit and a deep “why.” Along the way, I’ve lost people I love, rebuilt more times than I can count, and learned every lesson the hard way. So being recognized as Entrepreneur of the Year is deeply meaningful. It’s not just about success, it’s about survival, reinvention, and staying true to the impact I wanted to create.
This award isn’t just mine, it belongs to every person who believed in one of my wild ideas, every woman who’s worked on my teams, and every underdog who ever wondered if they could do it, too.
A special message or advice to small business owners
Don’t chase balance, chase alignment. When you’re building something meaningful, it’s not always going to be pretty. There will be 2 AM breakdowns, failed launches, lonely seasons. That’s not a sign you’re doing it wrong. That’s the price of building something real.
My advice?
- Fall in love with the process, not just the outcomes.
- Build something you’d be proud of even if no one clapped.
- And protect your energy like it’s equity, because it is.
Oh, and one last thing: people will underestimate you…let them. Just don’t you dare underestimate yourself.
Excellence in Data Privacy
& Cyber Security
GlobalVision
GlobalVision, founded in 1990, is the market leader in automated quality inspection and proofreading solutions for regulated industries. With over 1,000 customers in more than 85 countries – including more than 50 Fortune 500 companies – GlobalVision empowers organizations to eliminate errors, accelerate approvals, and ensure flawless content from brand to print.
Pioneering the first inspection systems of their kind, GlobalVision has continually set the standard for digital proofreading and quality control technology. Its comprehensive suite of solutions automates the inspection of text, graphics, barcodes, and color at every stage of the packaging and content lifecycle, helping businesses catch critical errors before they reach production. Trusted by industry leaders in pharmaceuticals, life sciences, consumer goods, and print and packaging, GlobalVision’s technology supports compliance with the world’s strictest regulatory standards while reducing costly reprints and recalls.
Your thoughts on winning the CanadianSME National Business Award
This recognition means a lot to us. As a bootstrapped company built from the ground up, it’s incredibly rewarding to see our team’s hard work in data privacy and security acknowledged at a national level. We’ve always believed that protecting our data isn’t just a feature—it’s a responsibility. We’re proud of how far we’ve come as a Canadian business making a global impact. This award reaffirms our commitment to helping companies deliver error-free, compliant content with confidence.
A special message or advice to small business owners
Invest early in building trust—with your customers, your team, and your technology. Whether it’s data security, product quality, or service delivery, consistency builds confidence. Stay focused on the long game: innovate on your foundations and don’t be afraid to evolve. As a bootstrapped company, we’ve learned that resilience and clarity of vision are your greatest assets. Spending time developing these areas pay huge dividends long term.
Young Entrepreneur of the Year
The SEED Agency
The SEED Agency is a Canadian event staffing and brand experience agency built to elevate how brands connect with people in real life. Founded by sibling duo Steven and Virginia Amidjinov, SEED brings together strategic thinking, dynamic talent, and standout storytelling to help brands leave a lasting impression where it matters most: face to face.
Whether it’s powering up trade show booths, staffing national campaigns, or crafting custom brand activations, SEED curates teams that go beyond just showing up, they show out. Every event is backed by thoughtful planning, a deep understanding of brand goals, and a roster of highly-trained ambassadors who live and breathe each client’s mission.
Whether it’s powering up trade show booths, staffing national campaigns, or crafting custom brand activations, SEED curates teams that go beyond just showing up, they show out. Every event is backed by thoughtful planning, a deep understanding of brand goals, and a roster of highly-trained ambassadors who live and breathe each client’s mission.
Steven Amidjinov, Co-Founder & CEO/CGO at The SEED Agency
Steven Amidjinov is the CEO and Co-Founder of The SEED Agency. He launched SEED with his sister in 2023, building a team-first culture rooted in energy and impact. He helps brands show up boldly at events, tradeshows, and in real life. Steven leads with curiosity, creativity, and caffeine. His electric personality is the heartbeat of the agency.
Thoughts on winning the CanadianSME National Business Award
Winning this award feels surreal in the best way. It’s a huge honour and a powerful reminder that the late nights, big ideas, and all the behind-the-scenes hustle are worth it. I started The SEED Agency because I saw a gap in how brands connect with people, and I wanted to build something real, human, and exciting. To have that vision recognized on a national level is fuel to keep going. This win isn’t just mine – it belongs to our team, our clients, and everyone who’s believed in doing things differently. This moment means everything to me.
A special message or advice to small business owners
Start messy, stay weird, and show up consistently. Don’t wait for the perfect logo, pitch, or timing. Just start. You’ll figure it out as you go, and when it gets hard, that usually means you’re growing. Build something with heart, treat your team like gold, and never underestimate the power of a thank-you. Celebrate every win, no matter how small – whether it’s your first sale or a kind message from a customer. Business isn’t a straight line, it’s more like a dance. So find your rhythm, surround yourself with good people, and make the journey as fun as the goal.
Customer Service Excellence
Altrum
Altrum stands at the forefront of employee recognition solutions, with a distinguished 65-year legacy and headquarters in Quebec, along with offices in New York and London. We partner with organizations globally to embed appreciation as a strategic driver of workplace culture and organizational success. Our comprehensive portfolio, from symbolic tokens of achievement to scalable recognition tools, immortalizes pivotal milestones and enables meaningful engagement across diverse organizational landscapes.
Rooted in a mission to celebrate achievements and inspire people, Altrum has earned its reputation as a trailblazer in the recognition industry. Our integrated offerings facilitate measurable improvements in morale, cultural cohesion, and performance by transforming appreciation from a transactional act into a deliberate, enduring organizational practice.
Thoughts on winning the CanadianSME National Business Award
We’re honoured to be recognized with the CanadianSME National Business Award. This recognition affirms our belief in the power of appreciation – not only in the workplace, but in how we do business every day. For over 65 years, Altrum has been driven by a simple mission: to celebrate achievements and inspire people. This award is a reflection of the incredible people behind that mission – our team, our clients, and our partners – who help bring it to life. We’re proud to share this moment with so many other remarkable businesses shaping Canada’s future with heart, innovation, and determination.
A special message or advice to small business owners
Celebrate the small wins—they build the foundation for everything that follows. Growth isn’t always linear, and the road can be challenging, but staying rooted in your purpose will carry you through. Surround yourself with people who believe in your vision and challenge you to grow. Don’t underestimate the power of recognition—within your team and beyond. When people feel valued, they give their best. And when you celebrate what matters, you build something that lasts. Keep showing up with passion and integrity. The impact you create, even quietly at first, will speak volumes over time.
Black Entrepreneur of the Year
AltoLeap
AltoLeap: Your Launchpad to Streamlined Success.
We are a custom software agency that helps small to mid-sized businesses eliminate inefficiencies and optimize operations through tailored digital solutions. Specializing in workflow management, system integration, and business process optimization, we empower organizations to boost productivity, streamline internal processes, and deliver exceptional customer experiences.
At the heart of our approach is the proprietary LEAP Framework, guiding businesses from understanding their challenges to implementing agile, high-impact solutions. AltoLeap’s systems are currently powering over $100 million in annual revenue for our clients, transforming complex, manual workflows into efficient, automated processes.
Lamar Falconer, CEO & Co-Founder of AltoLeap Inc.
Lamar Falconer is co-founder and CEO of AltoLeap Inc., a Canadian software development firm specializing in cloud-native enterprise solutions. Since 2012, AltoLeap has powered over $100 million in annual revenue for clients across manufacturing, transportation, and service sectors. With an engineering background and MBA, Lamar combines strong technical expertise with strategic business leadership. Lamar also mentors emerging software engineers throughout Canada and the Caribbean.
Thoughts on winning the CanadianSME National Business Award
Receiving this honour is humbling and deeply affirming. It celebrates far more than an individual milestone—it recognizes the collective ingenuity of our binational team, the trust of our clients, and the vibrant ecosystem of Black innovators driving Canadian business forward. The award reinforces my belief that when talent is met with opportunity and inclusive leadership, extraordinary outcomes follow.
A special message or advice to small business owners
Stay relentlessly close to your customers’ pain points and let those insights guide every decision. Resources may be limited, but curiosity, discipline, and a bias for action cost nothing and compound quickly. Surround yourself with people who challenge your thinking, measure what matters, and don’t be afraid to pivot when the data—or your gut—says the market has moved. Consistency beats perfect timing, and progress beats perfection every day.
Best Business Innovation
NAV43
Founded in 2016, NAV43 is a Toronto‑based digital growth agency that combines human strategy with advanced AI and marketing technology to deliver compounding returns in SEO, PPC, CRO, and CRM for e‑commerce and lead‑generation clients.
NAV’s strong team has developed GPT‑powered audit scripts, machine‑learning bidding models and generative‑content workflows that compress weeks of analysis into hours.
The results are tangible: For PolicyMe, NAV43 increased Qualified leads by 66% in just six months in the very competitive life insurance industry.
Today, brands from fintech to tourism trust NAV43 to turn search intent into measurable growth, confident in their promise: big‑agency technology with boutique‑agency care.
As Canadian SME Awards finalists, NAV43 is proud to demonstrate how intelligent automation, guided by passionate experts, is redefining efficiency for businesses of every size.
Your thoughts on winning the CanadianSME National Business Award
Winning the CanadianSME National Business Award for Best Business Innovation is incredibly humbling and an honour. Innovation is a recognition that reflects our team’s relentless curiosity and commitment to pushing the boundaries of digital marketing. From day one, we’ve leaned into change, especially through AI-driven strategy, and turned that mindset into real client impact. This award isn’t just a milestone, it’s a reflection of the clients who trust us, the teammates who experiment fearlessly, and the community that supports Canadian innovation. We’re incredibly proud, grateful, and energized.
A special message or advice to small business owners
Stay obsessed with your customer, stay humble, and never stop evolving. Innovation doesn’t always come from the loudest ideas—it comes from listening closely, solving real problems, and embracing change. Surround yourself with smart, curious people and don’t be afraid to challenge old ways of doing things. Entrepreneurship is a long game, filled with hard lessons and small wins that compound. Celebrate those moments, trust your process, and keep showing up. Most of all, remember that small businesses aren’t small in ambition or impact—we are the engines of change, and we rise by helping each other succeed.
Startup business of the Year
Roam
Roam is redefining vehicle access for Canadians with a flexible alternative to traditional car ownership, leasing, and rentals. Designed for today’s mobile lifestyles, Roam has pioneered a micro-leasing model that lets individuals and businesses drive new or near-new vehicles on their terms—by the week, month, or year—with no long-term commitments.
Since launching, Roam has grown rapidly, expanding across Ontario and serving thousands of customers. From families needing seasonal transportation to businesses managing dynamic fleets, Roam’s platform makes driving simpler, faster, and more affordable. Customers can book online in minutes, enjoy delivery and pickup options, and get on ongoing support, insurance, maintenance, and roadside assistance with their vehicle.
Thoughts on winning the CanadianSME National Business Award
It’s an incredible honour to be named Startup Business of the Year. This recognition reflects the dedication of our team, the trust of our customers, and the support of our investors, advisors, and partners. It affirms that we’re solving a real need at Roam – and motivates us to keep building.
A special message or advice to small business owners
Building a business is hard, even for experienced founders. Don’t let setbacks define you. Focus on solving real problems, surround yourself with great people, and keep showing up. Canada and the world needs more builders who are creating jobs, improving our lives, and inspiring others to do the same.
Inspirational Leader of the Year
369 Global
369 Global is a group of companies with business interests in skills training and workforce development, media and communications, and global market facilitation. Our vision is to inform, educate and activate global citizens to make a worldwide impact. We do this by providing our clients with innovative, inclusive, and scalable training, business and communications solutions that prepare our clients to address global challenges.
We operate with the burning desire to harness our collective talent as a force for positive impact on the world around us. Our values help steer us in this direction.
We provide innovative, inclusive, and scalable training, business and communications solutions that prepare our clients to address global challenges. Since the beginning, we have focussed on providing people with promising solutions to their greatest challenges. Our companies tackle gaps by equipping people and companies today to tackle tomorrow’s challenges.
Kumaran Nadesan, Co-Founder and Deputy Chairman of 369 Global Inc
Kumaran Nadesan is Co-Founder and Deputy Chairman of 369 Global, a Canadian group of companies focused on talent mobility, media, and global business facilitation. A former civil servant in the Ontario Public Service, he has led initiatives in policy and innovation, partnerships and growth, and intergovernmental affairs. Kumaran has participated in national trade missions and is a vocal advocate for everyday Canadian leadership.
Named a CivicAction DiverseCity Fellow, Established Professional of the Year by the Canadian Tamil Professionals Association, and Inspirational Leader of the Year by CanadianSME National Business Awards, Kumaran possesses a rare mix of public insight and entrepreneurial drive.
Thoughts on winning the CanadianSME National Business Award
I’m honoured to have been named Inspirational Leader of the Year. As someone who is relentlessly focused on execution, this award is an opportunity to pause and reflect on how far I have come. It’s also an important reminder that leadership does not happen in a vacuum. It boils down to people who have extended to you the privilege of their time, attention, and energy to be a part of what you’re building. To that end, I’m incredibly grateful to my colleagues in 369 Global and beyond who I hope know that my leadership journey serves to reflect their own.
A special message or advice to small business owners
Small and medium enterprises make up over 99% of all businesses in Canada, create nearly two-thirds of the jobs in this country and contribute billions to the GDP. We are not just participants in the economy, we drive it. As SME leaders who have this incredible impact on the growth and prosperity of this country, now is the time to step up more and help build the One Canadian Economy. Let’s recognise the power of our everyday leadership in business, lean into it and lead with purpose – not just for profit, but to build lasting impact.
Digital Business
of the Year Award
Page Pros
Page Pros is a dynamic digital marketing agency dedicated to empowering local small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) to thrive in the online landscape. We specialize in providing comprehensive, results-driven solutions that significantly enhance our clients’ digital presence and customer acquisition.
Our core offerings include expert Search Engine Optimization (SEO), targeted local listing management, and strategic online advertising campaigns. We ensure businesses are not only visible but also effectively convert online interest into tangible customer action.
A key accomplishment for Page Pros is our consistent success in generating qualified leads and measurable ROI for our diverse client base. We pride ourselves on demystifying digital marketing for SMBs, translating complex strategies into accessible, impactful results.
Your thoughts on winning the CanadianSME National Business Award
I’d like to thank Canadian SME Magazine for this honour and accept this award on behalf of all IT people out there. As the owner and founder of Digital Fire I set the vision, but it’s the staff that do the work. They do the heavy lifting and the innovation and it’s their hard work and success that should be celebrated. It means that a business somewhere kept going, or was able to make a deadline they thought was impossible or a court case got heard or an item got manufactured and shipped or a truck delivered freight on time.
A special message or advice to small business owners
I would address this message to owners and workers in the small business technology sector. Your job is often thankless. This award is proof that people appreciate what you do. The work you do is important. When you go the extra mile, it means a building was built based on the architectural drawing that got done because the right solutions with the right equipment and recommendations were put in place and quickly adapted to be able to work from anywhere. It means that we acknowledge and celebrate the important work of the unsung IT heroes that kept the lights on and allowed people to get through the pandemic and keep Canada’s economy going and eventually provide the backbone for a successful recovery. Without IT and digital tools like Zoho and the hard work of IT folks, the economy and the recovery out of the pandemic doesn’t happen. We thank you for everything you’ve done and applaud you for sticking with it in hard times.
Business Woman of the Year
Speer Technologies Inc.
Speer Technologies is a fast-growing software company founded by Mathew Mozaffari. The company builds custom digital products that help businesses and governments work smarter, with a focus on usability, security, and scalability. From healthcare and transportation to public sector platforms, Speer has delivered over 40 products that are being used around the world.
Despite starting with no outside funding, the company has grown to millions in revenue and doubled both its team size and profit in just one year. Speer was recently ranked 42nd on The Globe and Mail’s list of Canada’s Top Growing Companies after reaching 1,005 percent revenue growth.
Stephanie Loureiro, Chief Strategy Officer (CSO) + Product Strategy Advisor of Speer Technologies Inc.
Stephanie Loureiro’s background is in digital media and television. She hosted and produced an award-winning podcast where she interviewed stars from The Bachelor, E! Network, and MTV, and a television show for Rogers, interviewing musicians and TV personalities.
As a founding member of Speer Technologies since 2019, Stephanie took on the role of Creative Director, focusing on branding and UX/UI design. In 2021, she was granted a US patent for her work with AR video synchronization technology. She later transitioned to Chief Strategy Officer, scaling the company to $4M in revenue, doubling the team size and profit in one year. She also raised over $800,000 in subsidies for Speer. Speer achieved a major milestone, ranking 42nd out of 416 companies in The Globe and Mail’s 2024 Canada’s Top Growing Companies list, with an impressive 1,005% revenue growth over three years.
Thoughts on winning the CanadianSME National Business Award
Winning the Woman of the Year award at the CanadianSME National Business Awards is an incredible honour and surprise. It’s deeply meaningful to be recognized for work that I’m so passionate about, empowering people, building thoughtful products, and helping shape the future of design and tech in Canada! I’m incredibly thankful for the team at Speer for recognizing me for this opportunity.
A special message or advice to small business owners
My advice to small business owners is to trust your vision and stay adaptable. The biggest benefit we have as a smaller team is the ability to move quickly and fail fast. Build strong relationships with your team, your community, and your partners because people are the heart of any successful business and your network is so important.
E-commerce Business
of the Year
Snuggle Bugz
Snuggle Bugz is a proudly family-owned and operated Canadian retailer specializing in baby gear and parenting essentials. Founded by Ben and Tanya in 2006, the company has grown from a single store into a trusted national brand with six retail locations and a thriving e-commerce platform. Despite this growth, Snuggle Bugz has remained committed to its founding vision: to instill confidence in families as they navigate the journey of parenthood.
With a curated selection of premium products, knowledgeable team members, and a strong community presence, Snuggle Bugz is more than a store, it’s a support system. Whether it’s through car seat installations, product education, or parenting resources, we aim to empower and uplift every parent who walks through our doors or shops with us online.
Your thoughts on winning the CanadianSME National Business Award
Snuggle Bugz is Canada’s trusted destination for all things baby. With over 15 years of experience, we offer parents carefully curated baby gear and expert advice, available both online and in-store. Our mission is to instill confidence in every parenting journey with premium products and exceptional service.
A special message or advice to small business owners
Running a small business takes courage, consistency, and a whole lot of heart. Our advice? Stay connected to your “why,” and let it guide every decision. Lean into your community, listen, learn, and grow with them. Embrace innovation, especially in the face of challenges, and never underestimate the power of a supportive team. Celebrate the small wins, keep showing up, and know that your passion is your biggest superpower. The road may not always be easy, but it is always worth it!
Fastest Growing Company
Showpass
Showpass is the world’s first customer-centric ticketing and discovery platform for events, activities, and things to do. As the fastest-growing ticketing company in North America, Showpass empowers event organizers with innovative tools that elevate the fan experience and streamline event management. Trusted by millions of customers annually, Showpass is on a mission to reignite the joy of live experiences through a powerful combination of technology and passion for live events.
Showpass has earned national recognition for its growth, culture, and leadership. In 2024, the company was named to Deloitte’s Technology Fast 50, ranking #20 among Canada’s fastest-growing tech firms.
Your thoughts on winning the CanadianSME National Business Award
Winning the CanadianSME Fastest Growing Company Award is an incredible honour and a reflection of our team’s unwavering commitment to innovation and customer-first values. At Showpass, we exist to empower event organizers and elevate the live experience and this recognition validates the work we’re doing to reshape the industry. It’s also a celebration of the small businesses, independent promoters, and creative communities that inspire us every day.
A special message or advice to small business owners
Stay grounded in your values. Whether you’re scaling fast or facing tough times, your people and your purpose should lead the way. At Showpass, we navigated the pandemic without a single layoff by investing in our team and innovating for the future. If you build with integrity, resilience, and a deep respect for your community, success will follow—on your terms.
Missing Link Security T.A.B.B. Enterprise
Missing Link Security, a subsidiary of Heathrow Security, is a distinguished Indigenous-owned security firm based in British Columbia, renowned for delivering high-caliber mobile patrols, static guard services, and intelligent camera monitoring solutions. With a reputation for discretion and precision, the company safeguards some of Western Canada’s most prominent destinations—including luxury hotels, marquee event venues, landmark residential towers, upscale commercial developments, healthcare campuses, and First Nations-led infrastructure projects.
From high-rise construction sites in the heart of the city to exclusive coastal resorts and social housing redevelopments, Missing Link provides a refined and responsive security presence tailored to high-stakes, high-visibility environments. Their AI-powered surveillance systems offer advanced analytics—such as real-time PPE compliance, loitering detection, and threat identification—setting a new benchmark in modern security.
Ryder Davis, CEO of Missing Link Security
Immigrant Entrepreneur
of the Year
Ntradex Solutions Inc.
Ntradex Solutions Inc. is a Canadian fintech company transforming how immigrants move money across borders. Through its mobile app, Ntradex empowers users to send and receive international payments in real time, offering instant currency exchange and remittance services between Canada, the UK, the US, Australia, and key African markets.
Since launching in May 2023, Ntradex has processed over $8 million in cumulative transaction volume, serving more than 4,000 immigrants navigating life between countries. The platform is built for speed, simplicity, and financial inclusion — eliminating the delays and friction common in traditional remittance systems.
Kalada Sika, Founder & CEO of Ntradex Solutions Inc.
Kalada Sika is an Electrical/Electronic Engineer, turned Software Engineer, then finally turned Entrepreneur. Kalada founded his first company in 2015 in Nigeria, a Technology company that built software solutions for businesses within various sectors. In 2023, on relocating to Canada, he founded Ntradex Solutions Inc., as a response to the growing pains he encountered remitting funds abroad. With Ntradex, his mobile app solution, he simplified cross-border payments and compressed the remittance times from days to minutes for over 3000 immigrants in Canada.
Your thoughts on winning the CanadianSME National Business Award
I still get jitters thinking about that night and the moment my name was called. To say it was unexpected would be an enormous understatement. I feel grateful, blessed, lucky, and most importantly, recognized, and it’s all thanks to the CanadianSME! Being a finalist for a category is recognition enough, and I was elated already to get that, but going ahead to win it was beyond amazing. A lot of founders grind and grind, but never get the accolades or any form of recognition, so to achieve that meant a lot to me. More than words can describe.
I can’t thank the CanadianSME enough for all the work they do behind the scenes, and for looking out for small business owners in their own way. For recognizing all the hard work and creating a space for them to shine. I am more than grateful for everything they’ve done for me, for Ntradex Solutions Inc., and for the many Canadian small businesses out there.
I can’t thank the CanadianSME enough for all the work they do behind the scenes, and for looking out for small business owners in their own way. For recognizing all the hard work and creating a space for them to shine. I am more than grateful for everything they’ve done for me, for Ntradex Solutions Inc., and for the many Canadian small businesses out there.
A special message or advice to small business owners
My advice is simple: NEVER GIVE UP! Even on days when it feels like all you do means nothing, even when it feels like you’re wasting your time, even when the naysayers tell you, you’ll never make it, NEVER GIVE UP.
I went 2 years straight without taking a paycheque from my company, all while paying the 12 key people on my team. Not because I didn’t need the money, everyone needs money, especially in today’s Canada and with what the economy looks like. But because I wanted Ntradex to succeed, and I believed that my sacrifice would give us a shot at that. I put everything into the company, quite literally, and I was willing to risk it all to see it succeed. It is not easy to do this; it is not a decision I took lightly, but it was one I felt I had to make. Because I believed in what I was doing, and my belief was infectious. My team believed because I believed. So did my family, my mentors, and even our customers etc.
You must NEVER GIVE UP, and perhaps most importantly, you MUST BELIEVE. Believe in yourself first, and believe in what you are building. Your belief and strength of perseverance are all that you need to succeed as an Entrepreneur.
I went 2 years straight without taking a paycheque from my company, all while paying the 12 key people on my team. Not because I didn’t need the money, everyone needs money, especially in today’s Canada and with what the economy looks like. But because I wanted Ntradex to succeed, and I believed that my sacrifice would give us a shot at that. I put everything into the company, quite literally, and I was willing to risk it all to see it succeed. It is not easy to do this; it is not a decision I took lightly, but it was one I felt I had to make. Because I believed in what I was doing, and my belief was infectious. My team believed because I believed. So did my family, my mentors, and even our customers etc.
You must NEVER GIVE UP, and perhaps most importantly, you MUST BELIEVE. Believe in yourself first, and believe in what you are building. Your belief and strength of perseverance are all that you need to succeed as an Entrepreneur.
Best Professional
Services - Top 1
Senior Home Care by Angels
Senior Home Care by Angels – Hamilton is a trusted provider of personalized, non-medical home care services, proudly serving the Hamilton, Stoney Creek, Ancaster, and Grimsby communities for over 13 years. Our unwavering commitment to excellence is reflected in our 100% 5-star Google review rating, a testament to our dedication to compassionate and reliable care over time.
At Senior Home Care by Angels – Hamilton, we don’t just provide care; we build lasting relationships grounded in trust and respect, ensuring seniors can age gracefully and comfortably under the companionship of their families in their own homes.
Your thoughts on winning the CanadianSME National Business Award
Winning the CanadianSME National Business Award for Best Professional Services is an incredible honor and a proud milestone for our entire team. It recognizes the heart, hard work, and commitment we pour into supporting seniors and their families every day. This award reaffirms our mission to deliver compassionate, client-centered care with excellence and integrity. We’re grateful to the CanadianSME community for this recognition, and it inspires us to continue raising the standard in senior care. Thank you to our caregivers, clients, and families — this achievement belongs to all of us.
A special message or advice to small business owners
To all small business owners: never underestimate the impact of your work. Every challenge you overcome shapes your growth and resilience. Stay focused on your purpose, surround yourself with the right people, and lead with heart and consistency. Success doesn’t happen overnight — it’s built through perseverance, adaptability, and service. Celebrate the small wins, learn from the setbacks, and always listen to your clients. Your authenticity and commitment will set you apart. Keep pushing forward — your vision is valid, and your journey matters.
Best Professional
Services - Top 2
Pigeon Brands Inc.
Truth is at the core of everything we do at Pigeon. It’s the only currency that stands the test of time – and today, it’s more valuable than ever before. For almost 50 years, Pigeon has shepherded many of North America’s leading consumer brands to navigate a changing world, delivering inspired results via thoughtful strategy and brilliant creative. Pigeon’s award-winning creativity is focused on creating ROI through design, integrated marketing, production, and excellence in execution, going far beyond campaigns to build brands that last.
Pigeon’s partners are among the top brands in Canada and around the world such as Corby Spirit and Wines, Give and Go, IKEA, Danone, Hershey, Scott’s, Dr. Oetker, Nutrinor, CF Montréal, Metro, Grupo Bimbo, and Irving Tissue to name a few. The firm is privately held with offices in Toronto and Montréal.
Your thoughts on winning the CanadianSME National Business Award
Winning the CanadianSME National Business Award for Best Professional Services is an incredible honour and a proud reflection of our team’s passion and dedication. At PIGEON, we have a deep belief in the power of strategic creativity to move people and brands forward – not only in the work we deliver, but in how we show up for our clients and for each other every day. This recognition celebrates the values that drive us: curiosity, collaboration, and excellence. Being acknowledged by an organization that celebrates Canadian entrepreneurship is incredibly rewarding, and it motivates us to keep raising the bar.
A special message or advice to small business owners
Stay rooted in your purpose and values – they can be your compass in both calm and chaotic times. Surround yourself with people who challenge you, support you, and share your vision. Embrace curiosity, listen deeply, and don’t be afraid to evolve. Growth doesn’t always come from big leaps; often, it’s the small, consistent steps that shape lasting success. I’d say that leadership isn’t about having all the answers, but about creating the conditions for others to thrive. In the end, resilience, creativity, and heart are what truly drive impact – in business and beyond.
Best Professional
Services - Top 3
Horizon Equine Veterinary Clinic
Horizon Equine Veterinary Clinic is entirely devoted to the health and performance of leisure, sport and working horses. We provide in-clinic, on-farm, and emergency equine veterinary services around the clock, 365 days a year. We serve the equestrian community across the lower mainland of BC from the Sunshine Coast and Squamish across the Fraser Valley to Chilliwack.
Our services are tailored to meet the unique needs of each client and patient:
- Sports Medicine & Performance
- Lameness Diagnosis, Regenerative Treatments & Rehabilitation
- Reproduction & Fertility
- Preventative Care & Wellness
- Internal Medicine
- Surgery
- Emergency & Critical Care
Your thoughts on winning the CanadianSME National Business Award
Horizon Equine Veterinary Clinic is truly honoured to receive the Canadian SME National Business Award for Best Professional Services. This recognition reflects the trust of our clients and our deep commitment to helping them and their horses thrive. To fellow businesses: never lose sight of the people you serve—listen intently, deliver with heart, and grow with purpose. Excellence follows when you lead with care and stay focused on what matters most.
A special message or advice to small business owners
As a small business owner, resist the urge to shoulder it all—you are not your entire business. Step back regularly to scan the horizon and periscope up: connect with peers, learn from their wins and missteps, and embrace best practices that save time and spark growth. Staying engaged with your community and key stakeholders keeps your business relevant, resilient, and primed for opportunity. Leading well means looking up and looking forward.
The Sustainable
Business Award
Dr. Phone Fix
Dr. Phone Fix is a multiple-award winning, eco-friendly, customer centric growth leader in Canada’s multi-million-dollar cell phone repair and sale of certified pre-owned phones industry. It was founded in Edmonton in 2019. Until it went public in March, it was Canada’s largest privately owned cell phone repair company with 35 stores in 23 cities in 4 provinces. The Financial Times and the Globe and Mail have chosen it as one of the Fastest Growing Companies in Canada.
It has received 28,000 verified online positive customer reviews and a 4.9-star Google rating. It has been honoured at awards gala in London (2022), Rome (2023), and Istanbul (2024) and is winner of the People’s Choice award in 2023 and 2024 and winner of an international award for ‘Sustainability Leadership’ in Canada and the US. It repairs more phones in Canada than anybody with one exception, usually in under an hour and guarantees its repairs for life. It has a industry leading inventory and supply chain system and uses premium parts including OEM parts from Apple and Samsung. It is Canada’s second largest seller of certified pre-owned phones and is partner with Canada’s top non-profit battery recycler, Call2Recycle.
Your thoughts on winning the CanadianSME National Business Award
“We are proud and grateful for our many awards, but this one – winning Canada’s top business ‘green award – is very special since we are heavily committed to doing what we can to save the planet with our mission to Repair, Reuse, Refurbish, Resell, Recycle cell phones. We are over the moon as this year’s winner.”
A special message or advice to small business owners
“As a society we are competitive – from spelling bees to Nobel prizes. They bring out the best in us. We hope we serve as an inspiration for others, and we urge other companies to compete in future years. They help push us to exceed expectations and to excel. We urge others to challenge themselves and showcase their achievements.”
Spark Centre
As a business incubator, Spark Centre provides advisory services, office space and day-to-day operational support to early stage and rapidly growing innovation and technology companies.
Our commitment to sustainability has played a pivotal role in driving our growth and success and has helped us attract investors and business partners who share our sustainability values.
One such initiative is our Eastern Ontario Innovation Corridor (EOIC), a collaborative platform that connects startups, academic institutions, and business partners focused on sustainable innovation.
2SLGBTQI+ Inclusive
Excellence Award
Fondation Émergence
Founded in 2000, the Émergence Foundation is a pioneering Quebec organization dedicated to raising awareness, educating and defending the rights of people of sexual and gender diversity.
The Community
Impact
Award
COSTI Immigrant Services
COSTI is a trusted community-based not-for-profit organization that has supported newcomers and diverse communities across the Greater Toronto Area since 1952. We provide inclusive settlement, employment, education and social services that help individuals overcome barriers, build skills and take meaningful steps toward brighter, more fulfilling futures in Canada.
With 19 locations and a dedicated team that speaks more than 60 languages, our culturally responsive, client-focused approach ensures every individual receives support tailored to their unique needs. Our wide range of services includes career development, language training, housing assistance, mental health support and specialized programs for seniors, families and women.
Your thoughts on winning the CanadianSME National Business Award
Winning the CanadianSME Community Impact Award is a special one for us because impact is what drives us at COSTI. It honours the work we’ve been doing quietly, case by case, story by story, for over 70 years. From settlement to employment, from trauma recovery to language training, nearly 40,000 individuals turned to us last year alone.
This award is a recognition of every staff member who shows up, listens and helps someone feel supported. That’s the real work. And while we don’t do it for the spotlight, we’re proud that this impact is being seen (and felt) across our communities!
This award is a recognition of every staff member who shows up, listens and helps someone feel supported. That’s the real work. And while we don’t do it for the spotlight, we’re proud that this impact is being seen (and felt) across our communities!
A special message or advice to small business owners
It is important to be consistent: stay close to your purpose and keep showing up!
Whether it’s about building a business, a service or a movement, real impact happens one story at a time. At COSTI, we’ve spent more than seven decades walking alongside individuals as they rebuild, restart and thrive, and that kind of steady, heart-led work adds up. We may not always see the results right away, but consistency pays off. Community impact doesn’t happen overnight, but it does happen when people feel seen, supported and included. And that’s something every small business has the power to do.
Best in AI & Automation Award
AiZtech Labs
At AiZtech Labs, we are on a mission to make life 10X better for one billion people. We blend world-class AI research with human-centered design to redefine what’s possible in health technology. We are building a new tomorrow by democratizing access to well-being using just a selfie experience through your smartphone.
We’re launching a digital health platform called iSelfie.ai that can detect silent signals of different diseases by identifying digital biomarkers on the outer surface of the eyes and face. This breakthrough AI platform, iSelfie.ai™, has been validated in clinical studies at world-class universities and medical institutions in Canada and the U.S. It represents the future of consumer health technology, enabling equitable access—anytime and anywhere—to capture silent signals of health and support your proactive wellness and preventive care decisions.
Your eyes tell a story of your health. iSelfie helps you reveal it.
Your thoughts on winning the CanadianSME National Business Award
The best dreams are those that happen with our eyes wide open. This is an incredible moment for us and for the AI community. It is a celebration of our relentless endeavour to impact a billion lives with younger healthier hearts. Canada can be an AI superpower. Indeed Canada should be an AI superpower. We have all it takes for that. We just need to set it as a national priority for a sovereign prosperous economy. And a final note of thanks to my wife, Nour and my children who are my inspiration.
A special message or advice to small business owners
“Believe.” Believe in your mission; in yourself and in your team. Your business deserves to exist if it makes people’s lives better. For sure, you’ll face headwinds if you’re building a new tomorrow that only a few can envisage. So persevere and learn along the journey. And if you fall down 7 times, make sure you get up 8 times. Sincere hard work will never go in vain. So have faith, have fun. Keep hustling, keep shining. You will either win or learn.
Best in Health and
Wellness Business
Totum Life Science Inc.
Totum Life Science is a leader in integrated health and wellness, dedicated to optimizing human performance through a multidisciplinary approach. For over two decades, Totum has set the standard in Toronto for combining evidence-based rehabilitation, clinical services, and performance training under one roof. With a team of expert practitioners—including physiotherapists, chiropractors, massage therapists, naturopaths, and personal trainers—Totum delivers seamless care tailored to each individual.
Renowned for its collaborative model and elite-level service, Totum has supported Olympic athletes, corporate professionals, and everyday clients in achieving their wellness goals. Its commitment to excellence, innovation, and community impact has earned Totum a reputation as a trusted destination for holistic health.
Your thoughts on winning the CanadianSME National Business Award
Humbled is the appropriate word to describe our reaction to winning this national business award. We were thankful to be nominated and thrilled to be a winner amongst so many incredible nominees. S.K. and the team at Canadian SME have clearly developed a trusted resource in helping small and medium sized businesses thrive. Our Totum team members are really the ones to recognize as their efforts day in and day out produce the benefits for clients that lead to this type of recognition.
A special message or advice to small business owners
Perseverance may just be the most important quality any business owner can have. That and the belief in what you are trying to accomplish. Combine these two qualities and success is sure to follow.
Puppy Sphere
Puppy Sphere is a leading wellness company specializing in puppy-therapy experiences that promote mental health, boost well-being, and foster community connection. Founded in 2021 by two female entrepreneurs, Puppy Sphere has welcomed over 200,000 guests to its signature events, making the gentle power of animal-assisted therapy accessible to thousands across North America.
Their best-selling class, Wellness Puppy Yoga, combines a gentle yoga flow with playful puppy interaction, followed by a social period featuring a cold-pressed juice bar and photo booth—creating a joyful, therapeutic space that supports both emotional and physical wellness.
CSR Excellence Award
Miix Analytics Incl.
Miix Analytics is a Marketing Analytics Boutique Consulting firm based in Liberty Village, Toronto, founded by industry expert Hilary Borndahl. We are built on a passion to help clients prove the ROI of their marketing budget. Our talent is 100% based in Canada, meaning our consultants personally experience the media and marketing of our clients’ brands. Our data scientists take a fresh approach to Marketing Mix Modeling (MMM) by combining expert coding skills with big data, custom dashboards, data visualizations, and world-class, unbiased consulting. Our services are quoted as being “top-shelf”, fast, affordable, and offered in real-time. We unlock insights to support multiple research questions in each engagement, proving the short-term value of marketing and equipping marketers with the data they need to address the C-Suite.
Best in Retail Award
STACKT
STACKT creates award-winning spaces where community and commerce thrive together.
Best known for its Toronto flagship, STACKT market animates over 100,000 square feet in downtown Toronto, blending small businesses, global brands, cultural programming, and hospitality experiences. In 2024, STACKT hosted more than 300 events and welcomed over 1,000 businesses. With a 10-year lease from the City of Toronto, STACKT remains committed to entrepreneurship, inclusivity, and cultural vibrancy.
STACKT’s impact on creative placemaking and business innovation has earned both national and global recognition. Most recently, STACKT was named one of Fast Company’s World’s Most Innovative Companies, ranking #4 globally in Economic Development, the only Canadian company on the list.
Your thoughts on winning the CanadianSME National Business Award
Winning the CanadianSME National Business Award is an incredible honour and a powerful reflection of what drives us at STACKT: building community through bold ideas, local entrepreneurship, and shared experiences.
This recognition goes beyond our team. It celebrates every small business, artist, partner, and visitor who has shaped STACKT into a vibrant hub of culture and commerce. It affirms our belief that retail can be a platform for social impact and meaningful connection.
As we grow STACKTˣ and expand nationally, we are more inspired than ever to lead with purpose, creating inclusive, innovative concepts that bring people together and spark lasting change.
A special message or advice to small business owners
To Small Business Owners: Keep going – your creativity and grit fuel the heart of our cities. The road isn’t always smooth but every step forward counts. Trust your voice. Do it your way. The most powerful breakthroughs often come from the boldest moves. You’re not just running a business; you’re shaping culture and building community.
To Industry Leaders: Open the door – you have the power to drive real change. By sharing access, visibility, and resources, you’re not just supporting entrepreneurs, you’re shaping a more inclusive, resilient future for us all. Let’s lead with purpose and build what’s next, together.
To Industry Leaders: Open the door – you have the power to drive real change. By sharing access, visibility, and resources, you’re not just supporting entrepreneurs, you’re shaping a more inclusive, resilient future for us all. Let’s lead with purpose and build what’s next, together.
Baskits
North America’s Premier Gifting Service for over 40 years, Baskits has made thoughtful gifting quick and easy with gift baskets and gift boxes for every occasion delivered right to your door across Canada and the US. We also offer same-day delivery in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA). Founded in 1985, Baskits is a certified woman-owned Canadian Business and has been recognized by the Globe and Mail as one of Canada’s Top growing companies 3 years in a row (2020,2021,2022). Baskits offers exclusive brands, exceptional quality products, and unique designs to celebrate any occasion.
Best in Manufacturing Award
INKAS
INKAS® Payments Corp. is a Canadian leader in secure, transparent, and cost-effective payment processing solutions, proudly serving thousands of businesses from coast to coast since 2010. With Toronto headquarters, we offer a full suite of services including credit and debit card processing, e-commerce solutions, point-of-sale systems, and ATM deployments.
With our proprietary Lowest Rate Promise®, INKAS® Payments helps clients save up to 80% on transaction fees, making us one of the most competitive providers in the industry. Over the past year, we have achieved exceptional growth in market share, customer acquisition, and profitability by combining customer-centric service with advanced technologies.
David Wiseman, CEO of INKAS