Whistler Excellence Awards Nominations Now Open – Celebrate Those Helping Whistler Thrive

The Whistler Chamber is excited to announce the launch of nominations for the 2025 Whistler Excellence Awards, presented by BlueShore Financial, a division of Beem Credit Union. Nominations are now open until Tuesday, July 15 at 11:59 PM.

Now’s the time to recognize the people, passion, and purpose driving Whistler forward! Whether it’s a bold entrepreneur, a purpose-driven organization, or an outstanding employee going above and beyond — this is your opportunity to celebrate those helping Whistler flourish.

New for 2025: Honouring Arts & Above-and-Beyond Impact:

This year introduces a heartfelt tribute with the newly renamed Pat Kelly Champion of the Arts Award, presented by Arts Whistler, supported by Julie Kelly and their family foundation. Pat Kelly, a long-time local and a true champion of Whistler’s arts and culture scene, was more than an advocate—he was an active supporter and visionary. This award honours his legacy by recognizing individuals, businesses, and organizations making a significant contribution to the growth of arts and culture in our community.

Also returning is the Above & Beyond Award of Excellence, last awarded in 2020. This award honours an individual or collective whose remarkable contribution extends beyond expectations and benefits Whistler in meaningful, community-driven ways.

Award Categories for 2025:

• Business Person of the Year
• Emerging Business of the Year
• Innovative Business of the Year
• Rising Star of the Year
• Service Excellence – Small Business
• Service Excellence – Large Business
• Sustainability in Action Business
• Citizen of the Year
• The Pat Kelly Champion of the Arts Award
• Above & Beyond Award of Excellence

“The Whistler Excellence Awards are a powerful way to celebrate the businesses that are helping our community flourish through sustainable growth, innovation, and leadership,” says Louise Walker, Executive Director of the Whistler Chamber of Commerce. “Whether you’re nominating yourself or a peer, you’re helping to shine a light on the passion, resilience, and impact that drive Whistler forward. These awards don’t just recognize excellence—they share inspiring stories, create meaningful connections, and build a stronger business community. We’ve seen firsthand how nominations can open doors and elevate businesses in lasting, tangible ways.”

These awards highlight the legends and the rising stars—the changemakers who define Whistler’s vibrant spirit. Whether they’re trailblazing new ideas, uplifting the community, or creating standout service experiences, these individuals and organizations deserve to be recognized.

2025 Awards Gala Event

This year’s Excellence Awards Gala event will take place on Friday, October 3, 2025 at the Fairmont Chateau Whistler. The theme, Deep Roots, Bright Futures: A Night to Flourish, celebrates the journeys of local businesses—anchored in strength, nourished by community, and reaching toward limitless possibilities. Inspired by alpine forests and blooming mountain meadows, this magical evening invites guests into an elegant woodland setting to reflect on where we’ve come from and envision where we’re going. Stay tuned to Whistler Chamber channels for updates on event details.

Nominate now, Nominate often!

Now is the time to honour those making Whistler better every day. Nominate yourself, a colleague, or a business you admire at HERE before the deadline on Tuesday, July 15 at 11:59 PM.

Let’s come together to celebrate Whistler’s excellence—and the people and organizations helping it thrive!

Pictured at top: the team at Blackcomb Facade Technology, Winners of the 2024 Innovative Business Award, presented by Beedie Living. Photo credit: Joern Rohde Photography 

About Beem Credit Union

As of January 1, 2025, BlueShore Financial is now part of Beem Credit Union. Beem is one of BC’s largest provincially regulated credit unions, supporting the financial wellness of 193,000 members from 66 branches across the province with $17 billion in assets under administration. Formed from the union of founding credit unions with deep roots in BC communities, Beem is driven by co-operative values and a shared commitment to doing more—together.

About the Whistler Chamber of Commerce

The Whistler Chamber is the leading business association in Whistler, representing over 700 members across a diverse range of business sectors. We are a welcoming not-for-profit, member-driven organization that is committed to helping our members achieve business success. Our vision is to see thriving businesses in a resilient mountain resort community. As the voice of business in Whistler, the Whistler Chamber advocates on issues of importance to local businesses, the economy and our workforce. We provide access to resources, services and programs that support talent development and successful business operations. Services include professional development, networking events, panel lunches and workforce resources.

Learn more at https:\\go.whistlerchamber.com/wea

Media Contact:
Jacquie McLean
Marketing & Events Manager
Whistler Chamber
E: jacquie@whistlerchamber.com
P: 604.932.5922 ext. 961