Nominations have opened for the 2026 Smithers Community and Business Excellence Awards hosted by the Chamber of Commerce.

The event is held to celebrate and recognize business, people, and leaders that bring colour to the Bulkley Valley.
Executive Director Sheena Miller said this year’s theme is ‘A Spectrum of Excellence.’
“It’s a colour inspired community gala and chamber fundraiser so we’re saying be the colour that brings our community to life and dress in your favorite shade,” she added.
Fourteen awards are open for nominations including:
- Home Based Business of the Year
- Family Friendly Business of the Year
- Zero Waste Circular Economy Business of the Year
- Excellence in Education
- Citizen/Volunteer of the Year
- Major Contributor to Arts and Culture
- Public Service Excellence
- Tourism Excellence
- Young Entrepreneur of the Year
- Customer Service Excellence (Individual)
- Customer Service Excellence (Business)
- Business Person of the Year
- Business of the Year
- Resource and Mining Excellence of the Year
Nominations opened on April 17 and can be done on the Chamber’s website.
“This is our signature annual fundraiser that supports the local business community initiatives and our foundational services,” said Miller.
That includes advocacy, benefits, communications, community outreach, economic development, and events.
The gala is planned for May 23 at the Hudson Bay Lodge with the chamber still looking for event sponsors.
Tickets are available through the chamber.
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