Business awards nominations open

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Nominations have opened for the Alberta Business Awards of Distinction, which celebrate success in the province's thriving business community. Deadline for entries is Nov. 14.

Among the categories is the Alberta Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Aboriginal Woman Entrepreneur Award of Distinction, which recognizes outstanding achievement by Aboriginal women entrepreneurs who best exemplify effective leadership, innovation, capacity building and sustainability; who demonstrate cultural, social and environmental awareness; and who demonstrate commitment to enhancing the well being of the larger Aboriginal community.

There is also the Aboriginal Relations-Best Practice Award of Distinction, which is given to a non-Aboriginal business that demonstrates outstanding achievements in Aboriginal relations, including economic development, employment and training, and Aboriginal community support. The award recognizes a non-Aboriginal business that best links these pillars and is recognized by the Aboriginal community as such.

The Indian and Northern Affairs Canada (INAC) Eagle Feather Business Award of Distinction is given to a First Nation's owned business that demonstrates outstanding achievement in business and has incorporated entrepreneurial and cultural concepts into its operation for long-term success.

The Syncrude Aboriginal Youth Entrepreneur Award recognizes outstanding achievement by young Aboriginal entrepreneurs. The award is given to the business that best exemplifies the qualities of effective leadership, innovatively applied know-how, and excellent potential for growth; that shows a high level of social, cultural and environmental awareness and a demonstrated commitment to the wider Aboriginal community; and that engages in continuous learning or other improvement opportunities designed to advance the economic, social and environmental prospects of the enterprise.

The Alberta Business Awards of Distinction is the province's premier business awards program, which the Alberta Chambers of Commerce and its sponsors are hosting for the sixteenth year.

Businesses are encouraged to visit the Web site (www.abbusinessawards.ab.ca) to learn how to apply or nominate another business or organization for an award. Every finalist also becomes eligible for the Premier's Award of Distinction.