Frequently Asked Questions

What are the OABE categories?

Please refer to our categories page.

How many awards are given out?

One Award is given to a finalist in each category.

Who is eligible to win an OABE?

This competition is open to Oakville businesses that have not won in any judged category in the last 5 years. The business must be physically located in the Town of Oakville and have been in business for a minimum of 3 years (as of December 31st, 2023) under the same ownership. The Entrepreneur of the Year and Young Professional or Entrepreneur of the Year (YPEG Award) nominees must have been in business for a minimum of 2 years (as of December 31st, 2023).

Who is not eligible to win an OABE?

The competition is not open to government agencies. Businesses that have won an OABE in a judged category in the past five years are not eligible to win. The competition is also not open to the Judges or their employers, current year OABE Partners (with the exception of non-judged categories), to members of the OABE Organizing Committee or their employers, or to the Board of Directors of the Rotary Club of Oakville West or Board of Directors of the Oakville Chamber of Commerce or their employers.

How is a business nominated for an OABE?

Typically a customer or a supplier nominates a business they recognize as excellent. Oakville businesses may also self nominate if they feel they have succeeded and excelled in their business.

What does a nominated company have to do to participate in the Oakville Awards for Business Excellence?

All eligible nominees will be contacted and invited to qualify for the award competition by submitting information for the Judges’ consideration.

Does one have to obtain a company’s permission before nominating them?

Not necessarily. Businesses are usually honoured and flattered to be nominated by their customers or suppliers even without consultation. However, you might want to tell them as a courtesy. Most people like to know they are appreciated. In any event they may choose to have their nomination withdrawn.

When are the Awards presented and how do I get tickets?

The 29th Annual Oakville Awards for Business Excellence gala dinner will take place on May 29, 2024.

What are the partnership opportunities associated with the OABE and the Gala Dinner?

For information on partnership opportunities, please contact France Fournier (905) 845-6613.