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Spotlight Shining on 1Awards Trophy - Supporting local businesses for 13 years

Attention small businesses!

The FirstOntario 1Awards are offering $190,000 in prizes.

 

Applications accepted until midnight on March 31

The FirstOntario 1Awards small business competition is locally owned and grown, created by a network of nearby businesses 13 years ago to reward and recognize hardworking entrepreneurs who are committed to long-term success and who show care for their community.

This year’s prize pool consists of $190,000 – $20,000 cash and $170,000 in professional, in-kind services.

Eligible businesses have been in operation for more than two years, employ a maximum of 50 people with a home base in Hamilton, Halton, Brant, Niagara or surrounding areas.

Apply today! Successful applicants will move onto the next round and pitch to a panel of judges who have a unique understanding of what it takes to succeed.

Envelope

March 1 to 31

Applications open

Two Speech Bubbles

April 24

Interactive workshop for finalists care of The Thornton Group

Team

May 8

Pitch day at (formerly) Tim Hortons Field

Diamond

May 28

Winner reveal: breakfast gala hosted by Carmen’s Event Centre

There's more to win than just cash

Professional services are provided by 1Awards partners. Think about how they could benefit your business.

Agro Zaffiro

Get assistance with commercial leases, real estate purchases, employee contracts, handbooks and workplace policies. Get advice on corporate and employment law matters, health and safety directives, human rights and accommodations of employees, terminations, layoffs, WSIB, statutory leaves and work from home policies.

KPMG

Experts will help you identify government grant programs, incentives and how federal and provincial tax rules might affect you and your business. Get a business model review to help identify initiatives to support your objectives.

Play

Take advantage of specialized support with marketing, communications, digital strategies and web design.

Giant Shoe Creative

Partner with experts in media production to craft compelling narratives that reach and resonate with your audience.

The Hamilton Spectator

Winners take home a free print advertising package with a total value of $30,000.

Mohawk Centre for Entrepreneurship

Enjoy access to Surge Mentorship, Mohawk services and merchandise, podcast and broadcast services, badging program and micro-centre services through the Agency and the Consultancy.

Weever

Receive a business consultation package in the areas of finance, HR and sales to help answer questions and guide you through your next stage of growth.

Applications are open until March 31!

Successful applicants will be contacted by email.

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