Bracebridge Chamber Business Awards Gala2026 OFFICIAL VOTING BALLOT Survey

1.NOT-FOR-PROFIT IMPACT AWARD

This award celebrates a Bracebridge not-for-profit organization that has made a significant impact on our community. Whether through social services, cultural enrichment, environmental advocacy, commitment to mission, or innovative ideas. Demonstrating outstanding dedication and effectiveness.

This award is Sponsored by Dylan Scott Law

Muskoka Arts & Crafts - “MA&C has been a leader in supporting artists in Muskoka and enriching the daily lives of local residents through accessible art experiences. They are always looking to create new and exciting opportunities in the arts and culture sector!”

Alzheimer Society of Muskoka - “The organization provides vital support and education to individuals and families across the Muskoka region affected by dementia. Their local programs, advocacy, and compassionate care make a meaningful impact on our community.”

Cycling Without Age - “Using a trishaw, Cycling Without Age trained volunteers are able to offer inclusive bicycle rides to the elderly who are unable to do it themselves any longer. It's so incredible to see the smiles on the faces of those who have signed up for a ride, enjoying the fresh air and getting outside thanks to the funding for the trishaws and volunteer time.”

Bracebridge Muskoka Lakes Rotary Club - “The club is an excellent service association in our area whose members dedicate their time to events and initiatives like organizing the Bracebridge Santa Claus Parade and fundraising money to donate to local charities.”

Muskoka Conservancy - “The conservancy protects the natural beauty and ecological health of the Muskoka region through land conservation, education, and community engagement.”

Bracebridge Centre for Active Living - “The centre enriches the community by providing programs, activities, and a welcoming space that supports connection, wellness, and active living for older adults.”

Community Living South Muskoka - “The organization has made an extraordinary and lasting impact on our community by supporting children, youth, and adults with developmental disabilities to live full, connected, and meaningful lives for decades!”

OSPCA Muskoka Animal Centre - “The Ontario SPCA and Humane Society Muskoka Animal Centre in Bracebridge is a registered charity that finds homes for thousands of animals annually and provides community support services to keep pets with their families. It offers pet food distribution, emergency sheltering, spay/neuter and wellness programs, and educates children through its AnimalSmart™ program.”

South Muskoka Hospital Foundation - “The team works collaboratively with the community, being a part of so many events in the area, showing that community is what truly matters in healthcare! They execute all events successfully to ensure that funds raised are going back into the South Muskoka Memorial Hospital.”

YWCA Muskoka - “The organization demonstrates a strong commitment to building a safer, more inclusive community through vital programs that support women, children, and families across the region.”

PVC Muskoka Wild Volleyball - “The organization has drawn a huge crowd of youth athletes to play and represent Muskoka in tournaments all across Ontario. A massive effort put in by Ryan Murphy (full time teacher) to get this off the ground!”

Manna Food Bank - “Manna plays a vital role in supporting individuals and families in our community by providing reliable access to food and essential resources. They are dedicated to compassion, dignity, and community care.”

Muskoka Off Road Cycling Association (MORCA) - “Scott Wilson (president) donates his time grooming trails, organizing fundraisers and participates in the “Share The Ride” initiative which donates bicycles to youth in need locally. He is a fantastic community builder and is truly the backbone of the MORCA association whose trails bring great tourism to the area.”

MiND-AID Muskoka - “They’re making a real difference for young people and families in our community. Their free, needs-based services help youth find the right mental health supports and guidance when they need it most.”

3.ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY AWARD

This business, organization or individual exemplifies leadership and innovation in driving environmental sustainability within their business practices. Whether through implementing eco-friendly processes, promoting renewable energy, or fostering community engagement in environmental stewardship, nominees have demonstrated a commitment to green initiatives that make a positive impact.

This award is Sponsored by Muskoka Conservancy

Three Birds Flower Farm - “The farm prioritizes soil health, biodiversity, and seasonal growing practices, cultivating flowers without pesticides or harmful chemicals. Their approach creates a thriving ecosystem that supports pollinators, birds, and wildlife.”

Daughters of Indie - “A wonderful example of how sustainability can be built into everyday business in a meaningful and approachable way. As a vintage and thrift shop, their entire model supports environmental sustainability by keeping clothing and goods in circulation, reducing waste, and encouraging reuse instead of fast fashion consumption.”

Muskoka Watershed Council - "The council is a leader in protecting the health of Muskoka’s lakes and watersheds through research, education, and community collaboration. Their ongoing commitment to environmental stewardship makes them a deserving nominee for the Environmental Sustainability Award."

9.YOUNG ENTREPRENEUR OF THE YEAR AWARD

Recognizing a local business owner between 18 and 35 years old who has shown extraordinary entrepreneurial success in launching or revitalizing a business.

This award is Sponsored by McMaster's Fine Foods

Morgan Vassallo - Muskoka River Bagel Co. - “Morgan has grown her business from baking bagels in her home kitchen to opening her own retail bakery. Her creativity, hard work, and commitment to quality have made Muskoka River Bagel Co. a community staple.”

Megan MacDougall – Wilful & Wild - "Meg is always very professional and welcoming at her store. For being so young she shows a lot of knowledge and experience in what she does."

Mitchell Augustine - Smash Factor Muskoka - "Mitch is a young entrepreneur with an opportunity to share his knowledge and skill with the community."

Brittany Clark - New Leaf Media - "A young local business leader who has demonstrated extraordinary entrepreneurial success in building a thriving company while strengthening the Muskoka community."

Elora Austrup - Ride. Perform. Move. - "Elora is a young business owner who operates a fabulous gym with a welcoming community."

Morgan Rammo - Vita Fitness - "Morgan is an exceptional fitness trainer and runs a wonderful gym."

Alondra delCarmen – Bracebridge School of Dance Arts - "She provides new exciting opportunities for her dancers and staff alike. She is absolutely adored by her students and her business smarts is paying off with an excellent reputation only in her late 20’s."

11.INNOVATION AWARD

Celebrating a Muskoka business using an innovative product in their business that has made the business run more smoothly or a business who is creating an innovative product or solution. Consider innovations in both processes and products: technology, environment, education, healthcare, hospitality, manufacturing, lifestyle, etc.

This award is Sponsored by Marquee Benefits

Bracebridge Library - "Inside the library you’ll find things most people would never expect: 3D printers, laser cutters, advanced technology classes, creative tools, and even Muskoka’s only free public recording studio. This is innovation with purpose. The library is removing barriers to technology and creativity by offering access to tools that many people could never afford on their own."

Muskoka Collective - "The business has built a cozy, welcoming space for professionals and businesses seeking a unique solution to their business needs. It is a strong foundation on which local businesses can grow, innovate and succeed!"

Skadi Cyber Defense - "They're doing really impressive work in the cybersecurity space, especially for smaller businesses that often don’t have access to strong digital protection. Based locally in Bracebridge, Skadi focuses on making cybersecurity more approachable and affordable while still delivering powerful, modern solutions."

3D Construction Printing Muskoka - "3DCP is revolutionizing housing in Muskoka by using cutting-edge 3D concrete printing technology to create affordable, sustainable, and innovative homes."

Community Builders Muskoka - "They are transforming construction through innovation and social impact. They address two critical challenges at once: affordable housing and the Trades workforce shortage."

House of Beauty - "Dannah uses innovative products, tools, and technology to help clients achieve their aesthetic goals."