Kitchener, ON – On Thursday, October 24ᵗʰ, 2024, the Greater Kitchener Waterloo Chamber of
Commerce, and the small business community came together to recognize the extraordinary
achievements of the hardworking individuals and businesses who were nominated across 7 categories
at the 2024 Small Business Awards, presented by BDC.
Ian McLean (President & CEO, Greater KW Chamber) hosted the evening’s celebrations with nearly 300
guests, including business owners, dignitaries, and community leaders. The event was hosted at 2
local venues, with the Reception at THEMUSEUM, followed by the Awards Program at Conrad Centre for
the Performing Arts. Small Businesses were not only recognized across the award categories, but
were also featured as Event Partners. Small Businesses like FoodZen, Casa Toro 88, Fo’Cheezy, and
more were Hospitality Partners providing food to guests throughout the evening. The Awards
themselves were also handmade by a local artist from Blown Away Glass Studio.
The event was presented by BDC, and was fittingly hosted during BDC Small Business Week – a
celebration of entrepreneurship that BDC has organized for 45 years.
Service Excellence Award
Winner: The Tone-Gar Group of Companies
The Tone-Gar Group of Companies is dedicated to setting the standard for exceptional customer service in the security industry. Established in 1996 by Anthony Atkins and Garfield Arthur, these two dynamic individuals believed customer service was crucial in developing a solid working partnership with their clients. Their two founders created the company mantra “Security and Service Go Hand in Hand” and have lived it every day for nearly 30 years. They strive to be a leader and innovator in providing exceptional customer service, by providing clients with 24-7 access to all levels of management. The Tone-Gar Group of Companies has achieved outstanding business performance, with projected growth of 20% for their current fiscal, underscoring their effective strategies and operational efficiency. The Tone-Gar Group of Companies operates and responds with the precision and expertise of a significant security firm while staying in their preferred lane, serving and exceeding their client’s expectations to develop that long-term working relationship.
Event Impact Award
Winner: Ginger Goat
Local hot sauce business, Ginger Goat, was created by Kris Ronan and Natacia Poley in their backyard. It was born out of a passion for spicy things with flavour. Founded in February 2021, it didn’t take long for people to notice their sauce as they joined the famed lineup on the hit show Hot Ones just 3 months into starting the business. Their small business grew rapidly, and in 2023, they launched GOAT FEST – a one day Hot Sauce and Craft Beer Festival, during KW Oktoberfest. It aims to elevate the hot sauce festival experience in Ontario—and across Canada—by shining a spotlight on the industry in a bigger, bolder, and spicier way than ever before, while still making sure to include a diverse lineup of local artisans, chefs, and brewers. They make sure to hire local performers, and food trucks and make charitable donations to St. Mary’s Hospital. In just a short period of time, Goat Fest has been recognized across Ontario and even in the US as one of the premiere festivals of its kind and has been able to secure companies and personalities from the hot sauce world who have never brought their brands to Canada before. GOAT FEST has also been recognized by Air Canada’s Inflight magazine, LCBO Magazine, and many other publications as well as appearing on Hot Ones, Chatelain, CBC, and more.
Skilled Trades Award
Winner: The Crack Specialists
The Crack Specialists has provided Excellence in Foundation Solutions for 20 years. Founded in 2004 by the Martin family, this small business has grown into a trusted name in Waterloo and beyond. The Crack Specialists prioritize ongoing training and employee retention, ensuring that each project benefits from a wealth of knowledge and experience, while also providing comprehensive training for their junior technicians. On top of their commitment to their staff, they have been active in the community, with annual donations to Salvation Army Toy Mountain, with plans to increase their contributions and support for the local homeless community through food and care package donations. The Crack Specialists has built a reputation for reliability, often remembered by clients during urgent times of need.
Employer of the Year Award
Winner: Batten’s Truck Centre Ltd.
Batten’s Truck Centre is one of Kitchener’s premier truck shops, offering quality service at affordable prices. They have grown substantially over the past 2 years and have 14 full-time employees, in addition to co-op students from various high schools in the region. They strongly believe in providing an exceptional working environment for their employees while making sure to have proper training for students interested in this trade. They offer above average wages, fully covered benefits (100% paid by the employer), boot and tool allowances, paid training when available, group outings and monthly company lunches. Batten’s Truck Centre also encourages employees to set and pursue personal and professional goals and support them with the resources they need. They believe that a thriving team is built on trust, respect, open communication, and collaboration. They also celebrate successes, both big and small, through regular acknowledgment and appreciation. Batten’s Truck Centre creates a collaborative environment, encourages all team members to lend a hand or share their knowledge, and makes it a place where you can grow professionally and personally.
Solopreneur of the Year Award
Winner: Worm Wrangler
Worm Wrangler was born from Amanda’s decade-long passion for vermicomposting, combined with her Bachelors and Master’s Degrees in soil science and a dedication to education and outreach. Worm Wrangler breeds and sells vermicompost worms, creates sustainable soil amendments and tools, and shares knowledge with community groups, non-profits, and schools, all while prioritizing community engagement and environmental responsibility. Worm Wrangler saw a 14% revenue increase, driven by the addition of three new worm species and a diversified product range. The business has made a significant community impact, engaging over 1,000 school-aged children in hands-on learning about soil health, in addition to hosting a virtual field trip that reached over 1,100 classrooms across Canada. Amanda is continually seeking opportunities for growth and improvement. She attends workshops and conferences related to sustainable soil management, seeks advice from industry experts, and actively participates in online forums and discussions – ensuring Worm Wrangler remains at the forefront of its industry.
Entrepreneur of the Year Award
Winner: FoodZen
Destiny Moser, Founder of FoodZen, began her career in tech, but after 17 years she decided to take a step back. Her passion for cooking started when she was young. Having early experiences with her grandmother in the kitchen not only sparked her passion for cooking but also instilled a deep appreciation for the power that food has, to bring people together. She started to take cooking classes, working with many local talents; Chef D, Terry Salmond, and Stephanie Soulis, and even ran the Kids in the Kitchen classes at the Kitchener Market. During COVID, she decided to take the leap and go back to school at Liaison Culinary School (now Top Toques) and earn a college diploma. Her decision was not just about gaining credentials; it was about reclaiming her passion and building a future that aligned with her values. In April 2021, her mom, a Sixties Scoop survivor, tragically passed away which reinforced Destiny’s commitment to Indigenous culinary traditions. Destiny soft-launched FoodZen that Fall, and spent a year piloting her business. In September 2022, she officially opened FoodZen to the public. Since then, FoodZen has expanded from one personal chef to five, adding a pre-made meal delivery service and an upcoming kids’ lunch program. Destiny has educated thousands and partnered with Bingemans to create Cedar Spoon Indigenous Catering. FoodZen aims to promote Indigenous philosophies while addressing food insecurity and environmental issues for future generations.
Exceptional Small Business Award
Winner: Remix Swing
The Exceptional Small Business Award is a special one. The winner of this category was determined solely on public voting. The nominee with the most votes during the voting period was named the winner of this category. Only 1 vote per email address per day was permitted. This category acknowledges the devotion that they have to their customers, and the appreciation their customers have for them. We are thrilled to honor Remix Swing, this year’s winner of the Exceptional Small Business Award. This is a testament to the remarkable impact one small business can have on its community. Determined by votes from the public, this award celebrates a business that fosters connection, creativity, and resilience. Their innovative spirit and unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction has truly set them apart, making them a beloved gem in our community.
