The ABEX Awards celebrate excellence in Saskatchewan's business community across a diverse range of categories—including entrepreneurship, innovation, and community impact. Browse the categories to find the best fit for your business—you can apply for multiple awards if eligible.
Seize the opportunity to highlight your achievements and gain recognition as a leader in Saskatchewan's business landscape!
Note: The ABEX Awards (2025) are open to businesses operating in Saskatchewan at the time of application and must remain in operation through the ABEX Awards Gala. Before applying, please review the eligibility criteria for each category carefully.
AwardsGROUP
Service Award
Description
The ABEX Service Award is presented to the business, regardless of industry, that consistently surpassed expectations in delivering high-quality service. Judging criteria consider the unique conditions of each business, evaluating factors such as size, growth potential, and the effectiveness of customer service initiatives. The successful business not only meets but exceeds industry standards, fostering strong customer relationships and contributing significantly to the overall advancement of their respective sector.
Requirements
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for this award, the organization must:
- Be a for-profit business.
- Demonstrate financial viability by submitting financial statements.
- Have been operating in Saskatchewan for at least two years as of April 1, 2025.
- Not have been the recipient of this award in the previous year.
- Not have won Business of the Year the previous year.
- Not currently serve as a board member or staff of the Saskatchewan Chamber of Commerce.
Evaluation Criteria
To be successful in this category, organizations should ideally:
- Demonstrate proof of exceptional customer service initiatives.
- Showcase innovative service offerings.
- Outline impact of service initiatives on business success.
Criteria
| Financial Statements |
| Safety Plan |
| Overall Application Quality |
| Service Uniqueness |
| Quality Customer Service & Corporate Strategy |
| Customer Service Initiatives, Staff Development, and Consistency |
| Measurement & Tracking of Customer Satisfaction |
| Additional Recognition (pass or fail) |
| Customer Testimonial (pass or fail) |
Marketing Award
Description
The ABEX Marketing Award recognizes businesses that have achieved exceptional results through innovative and impactful marketing strategies. Businesses may acknowledge the contributions of their marketing partners or agencies in their submission. This award recognizes innovators who have not only embraced creativity in their marketing endeavors but have also achieved measurable success in enhancing brand visibility, engagement, and overall market impact. The award highlights businesses that go beyond conventional approaches, exhibiting a deep understanding of their target audience, industry trends, and a commitment to achieving excellence in the competitive landscape.
Requirements
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for this award, the organization must:
- Be a for-profit business.
- Demonstrate financial viability by submitting financial statements.
- Have been operating in Saskatchewan for at least two years as of April 1, 2025.
- Not have been the recipient of this award in the previous year.
- Not have won Business of the Year the previous year.
- Not currently serve as a board member or staff of the Saskatchewan Chamber of Commerce.
Evaluation Criteria
To be successful in this category, organizations should ideally:
- Demonstrate innovative and effective marketing strategies.
- Show measurable success in brand visibility, engagement, or market impact.
Criteria
| Financial Statements |
| Safety Plan |
| Overall Application Quality |
| Target Market |
| Marketing Campaign Description |
| Goals and Objections |
| Success, Evaluation, Challenges |
| Campaign alignment with company objectives, overall marketing strategy |
| Major elements, decisions, tools |
| Explanation of team roles, agency usage (pass or fail) |
| Additional Achievements (pass or fail) |
Innovation Award
Description
The ABEX Innovation Award is presented to the business that redefined its industry through cutting-edge technologies, systems, services, or products. The successful business not only successfully implements innovative solutions but also leaves a lasting positive impact on their industry and contributes to enhanced sales, productivity, and overall sustainability. This award recognizes the bold trailblazing and positive transformation achieved by the forefront innovator, shaping a better future for both their industry and society.
Requirements
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for this award, the organization must:
- Be a for-profit business.
- Demonstrate financial viability by submitting financial statements.
- Have been operating in Saskatchewan for at least two years as of April 1, 2025.
- Not have been the recipient of this award in the previous year.
- Not have won Business of the Year the previous year.
- Not currently serve as a board member or staff of the Saskatchewan Chamber of Commerce.
Evaluation Criteria
To be successful in this category, organizations should ideally:
- Demonstrate successful ideation and implementation of an innovation.
Criteria
| Financial Statements |
| Safety Plan |
| Overall Application Quality |
| Description of Innovation |
| Uniqueness |
| Length of Utilization |
| Impact, Results, Measurables |
| Additional Achievements (pass or fail) |
| Impact on Sustainability (pass or fail) |
New Venture Award
Description
The ABEX New Venture Award is presented to the new business venture that has been in existence for one to three years and has demonstrated exceptional performance in profitability, job creation, and entry into new markets. Judging criteria emphasizes financial metrics, the unique nature of the new venture, and its significant impact on job creation and market expansion. This award acknowledges the success and innovative contributions of the winning new venture to the business landscape.
Requirements
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for this award, the organization must:
- Be a for-profit business.
- Demonstrate financial viability by submitting financial statements.
- Have been operating in Saskatchewan for at least two years as of April 1, 2025.
- Not have been the recipient of this award in the previous year.
- Not have won Business of the Year the previous year.
- Not currently serve as a board member or staff of the Saskatchewan Chamber of Commerce.
Evaluation Criteria
To be successful in this category, organizations should ideally:
- Demonstrate strong financial performance and business growth.
- Show significant impact through job creation or market expansion.
Criteria
| Financial Statements |
| Safety Plan |
| Overall Application Quality |
| Initial Strategy and Business Plan |
| Success, Goals, and Means |
| Required Investments & Impact |
| Sales with Projections |
| FTE Employees and Workforce Evolution |
| Long-term Strategy |
Non-Profit Impact Award
Description
The ABEX Non-Profit Impact Award is presented to the non-profit organization that has contributed to the betterment of Saskatchewan's business landscape. Through innovative practices and transformative initiatives, the successful organization plays a crucial role in building a robust and vibrant ecosystem that contributes to making Saskatchewan an ideal place for businesses to thrive.
Requirements
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for this award, the organization must:
- Be a registered non-profit organization.
- Note: Charities are not eligible. As per the CRA, organizations operating as charities cannot be considered non-profits.
- Demonstrate financial viability by submitting financial statements.
- Receive no more than 50% of funding from government entities.
- Have been operating in Saskatchewan for at least two years as of April 1, 2025.
- Not have been the recipient of this award in the previous year.
- Not currently serve as a board member or staff of the Saskatchewan Chamber of Commerce.
Evaluation Criteria
To be successful in this category, organizations should ideally:
- Provide proof of impact on the Saskatchewan business community.
- Showcase measurable outcomes that highlight the organization's contributions and achievements.
- Demonstrate effective implementation of innovative programs or projects that have driven meaningful change for businesses or the broader economic landscape.
Criteria
| Financial Statements |
| Safety Plan |
| Overall Application Quality |
| Mission Alignment & Community Impact |
| Innovative Programs or Projects |
| Community Engagement |
| Measurable Outcomes |
| Future Plans |
Young Entrepreneur Award
Description
The ABEX Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award is presented to an entrepreneur between the ages of 18-35 who has demonstrated success in launching and operating a new or existing business. Eligible candidates must offer a product and/or service; have long-term goals with corresponding strategies and have a demonstrated ability to innovate in response to marketplace challenges, resulting in a significant competitive advantage. Special consideration will be given to those who display an innovative approach to entrepreneurship.
Requirements
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for this award, the organization must:
- Be a for-profit business.
- Demonstrate financial viability by submitting financial statements.
- Have been operating in Saskatchewan for at least two years as of April 1, 2025.
- Not have been the recipient of this award in the previous year.
- Not have won Business of the Year the previous year.
- Not currently serve as a board member or staff of the Saskatchewan Chamber of Commerce.
- Be the ages of 18-35 as of April 1, 2025.
Evaluation Criteria
To be successful in this category, organizations should ideally:
- Demonstrate evidence of financial success.
- Include strategies for future goals.
Criteria
| Financial Statements |
| Safety Plan |
| Overall Application Quality |
| Business Concept, Strategies, Goals |
| Revenue-Generating Offerings |
| Business Idea Development Processes and Resources |
| Corporate Social Responsibility or ESG Practices |
| Leadership |
| Ability to Innovate and Adapt |
| Additional Recognition (pass or fail) |
| Understanding of Clients and Communities |
Community Involvement Award
Description
The ABEX Community Involvement Award goes to the business that has demonstrated exceptional commitment to supporting arts and culture, amateur sports, education, healthcare, or voluntary groups. Judging considers the relative size of the business. Greater consideration is given for involvement that is not an extension of the firm's main business activities. This award celebrates businesses that actively contribute to the betterment of their communities, demonstrating a genuine dedication to making a positive impact in areas that extend beyond their core business functions.
Requirements
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for this award, the organization must:
- Be a for-profit business.
- Demonstrate financial viability by submitting financial statements.
- Have been operating in Saskatchewan for at least two years as of April 1, 2025.
- Not have been the recipient of this award in the previous year.
- Not have won Business of the Year the previous year.
- Not currently serve as a board member or staff of the Saskatchewan Chamber of Commerce.
Evaluation Criteria
To be successful in this category, organizations should ideally:
- Demonstrate active contributions to community betterment through investment, time-commitment of staff, and/or leading key initiatives.
Criteria
| Financial Statements |
| Safety Plan |
| Overall Application Quality |
| Business Concept, Strategies, Goals |
| Revenue-Generating Offerings |
| Business Idea Development Processes and Resources |
| Understanding of Clients and Communities |
| Corporate Social Responsibility or ESG Practices |
| Leadership |
| Ability to Innovate and Adapt |
Sustainability Leadership Award
Description
The ABEX Sustainability Leadership Award recognizes businesses that exemplify leadership in integrating sustainability into their core strategies, driving both environmental and economic value. This award celebrates organizations—whether large corporations or small businesses—that prioritize sustainability through efforts such as waste reduction, energy efficiency, sustainable sourcing, or educating their communities on environmental responsibility. The successful business sets a powerful example for others, demonstrating that sustainability is not just a commitment to environmental well-being, but a strategic investment that drives long-term success, resilience, and growth across all sectors.
Requirements
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for this award, the organization must:
- Be a for-profit business.
- Demonstrate financial viability by submitting financial statements.
- Have been operating in Saskatchewan for at least two years as of April 1, 2025.
- Not have been the recipient of this award in the previous year.
- Not have won Business of the Year the previous year.
- Not currently serve as a board member or staff of the Saskatchewan Chamber of Commerce.
Evaluation Criteria
To be successful in this category, organizations should ideally:
- Demonstrate implementation of sustainable business practices that demonstrate a commitment to environmental responsibility.
- Show a proven track record of sustainability initiatives over the past two years.
- Demonstrate measurable results from sustainability efforts (e.g., energy reduction, waste management improvements, carbon footprint reduction).
Criteria
| Financial Statements |
| Safety Plan |
| Overall Application Quality |
| Key Sustainability Initiatives |
| Measuring the Success of Sustainability Efforts |
| Innovative Sustainability Practices or Technologies |
| Engaging Employees, Customers, or the Community in Sustainability |
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Award
Description
The ABEX Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Award recognizes the business that has demonstrated outstanding achievement in fostering equitable, sustainable, and measurable change. Recognizing excellence in practices, events, applied research, policy, programs, or other activities, this award highlights initiatives focused on traditionally under-represented groups such as women, visible/racialized minorities, Indigenous peoples, persons with disabilities, and 2SLGBTQ+. Encouraging the celebration of cultural differences, community relationship-building, and substantial progress within organizations and the broader community, this award champions efforts to advance diversity and inclusion.
Requirements
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for this award, the organization must:
- Be a for-profit business.
- Demonstrate financial viability by submitting financial statements.
- Have been operating in Saskatchewan for at least two years as of April 1, 2025.
- Not have been the recipient of this award in the previous year.
- Not have won Business of the Year the previous year.
- Not currently serve as a board member or staff of the Saskatchewan Chamber of Commerce.
Evaluation Criteria
To be successful in this category, organizations should ideally:
- Demonstrate commitment to inclusive employment practices, showcase measurable impact on under-represented groups, and/or display innovative diversity initiatives.
Criteria
| Financial Statements |
| Safety Plan |
| Overall Application Quality |
| Motivation to Invest in Enhanced Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Initiatives |
| Launch of DEI initiatives & Creation of Inclusive Business Environment |
| Integration into Company Culture and Corporate Objectives |
| Impact & Measurability |
| Employee Involvement |
Growth & Expansion (Small Business) Award
Description
The ABEX Growth & Expansion Award (Small Business) recognizes the business with less than 50 employees that has achieved significant growth or expansion through strategic initiatives. Growth may include increased revenue, market share, or customer base, while expansion may involve new locations, expanded product or service offerings, or entry into new markets. Businesses that have successfully expanded their reach through export—whether within Canada or internationally—will also be recognized for their role in strengthening Saskatchewan's presence beyond provincial borders.
Requirements
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for this award, the organization must:
- Be a for-profit business.
- Demonstrate financial viability by submitting financial statements.
- Have been operating in Saskatchewan for at least two years as of April 1, 2025.
- Not have been the recipient of this award in the previous year.
- Not have won Business of the Year the previous year.
- Not currently serve as a board member or staff of the Saskatchewan Chamber of Commerce.
- Have less than 50 employees.
Evaluation Criteria
To be successful in this category, organizations should ideally:
- Display evidence of financial growth, as well as growth or expansion in other areas (market share, customer base, geographical reach, business locations, product lines, service offerings).
- Showcase the development of strategies and projections for future growth.
Criteria
| Financial Statements |
| Safety Plan |
| Overall Application Quality |
| Initial Growth & Expansion Goals |
| Details of Growth & Expansion (cause, time frame, type of growth/expansion) |
| Impact on Organization |
| Job Creation |
| Export |
| Plans for Continued Growth (projections) |
Growth & Expansion (Medium & Large Business) Award
Description
The ABEX Growth & Expansion Award (Medium & Large Business) recognizes the business with 50 or more employees that has successfully executed growth or expansion strategies, leading to measurable business success. Growth may include revenue increases, workforce expansion, or market share gains, while expansion may encompass new geographic markets, product diversification, or investment in innovation. Businesses that have grown Saskatchewan's economy through export—whether by bringing local goods and services to national or global markets—will be recognized for their contributions to expanding the province's economic footprint.
Requirements
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for this award, the organization must:
- Be a for-profit business.
- Demonstrate financial viability by submitting financial statements.
- Have been operating in Saskatchewan for at least two years as of April 1, 2025.
- Not have been the recipient of this award in the previous year.
- Not have won Business of the Year the previous year.
- Not currently serve as a board member or staff of the Saskatchewan Chamber of Commerce.
- Have more than 50 employees.
Evaluation Criteria
To be successful in this category, organizations should ideally:
- Display evidence of financial growth, as well as growth or expansion in other areas (market share, customer base, geographical reach, business locations, product lines, service offerings).
- Showcase the development of strategies and projections for future growth.
Criteria
| Financial Statements |
| Safety Plan |
| Overall Application Quality |
| Initial Growth & Expansion Goals |
| Details of growth/expanison (cause, time frame, type of growth/expansion) |
| Impact on Organization |
| Job Creation |
| Export |
| Plans for Continued Growth (projections) |
Special AwardsGROUP
Business of the Year Award
Description
The ABEX Business of the Year Award is presented to the business that has exhibited exceptional performance in resilience, growth, stability, and overall business excellence. The recipient of this award is selected from all 2024 ABEX recipients, spanning across all application-based categories. Once you've applied for a category, you may complete the Business of the Year application, should you wish to be considered.
Requirements
- Must be a for-profit business.
- Must be financially viable.
- Must be operating in Saskatchewan for at least three years at the time of applying.
- Cannot have won this category within the past three (3) years.
- Must show evidence of business excellence across multiple areas of business.
- Must show evidence of economic impact on the province
Business Leader of the Year
Description
This award is presented to an individual who exemplifies the qualities of a business visionary and has contributed meaningfully to the local business community.
Community Leader of the Year
Description
This award is presented to an individual who has made a positive impact in Saskatchewan through volunteerism and philanthropy.
The Saskatchewan Business Hall of Fame
Description
The Saskatchewan Business Hall of Fame was established in 1990 to recognize businesses that have demonstrated excellence over an extended period of time and have contributed to the economic well-being of Saskatchewan.
The Roger Phillips Chamber Builder Award
Description
This award is presented to a person with a long-standing history of committing time, intelligence and leadership to the chamber network in Saskatchewan.
