Beer, lunch and whale watching sound like a great day out, and in Victoria all three have award-winning options.
This Week’s Lunch was named for Business of the Year with one to 10 employees, Prince of Whales for 11 to 39 employees, and Phillips Brewing and Malting for 40-plus employees during the 2025 Greater Victoria Business Awards, announced in front of a crowd of 350 on June 4 at the Victoria Conference Centre.
“What a great evening celebrating business in Greater Victoria and the incredible successes so many organizations are having even in these times. We needed that,” Chamber CEO Bruce Williams said in a news release. “The words of encouragement and the respect for all the finalists really represent our business community’s sense of camaraderie – especially among those aspiring to be the best at what they do.”
The recipients distinguished themselves across 14 award categories, ranging from Business of the Year to the previously announced Award of Distinction and Chamber Member of the Year. Finalists are chosen by an independent panel of prominent business leaders who serve as judges.
“There are so many businesses that deserve their moment in the spotlight, and all of this year’s recipients are amazing inspirations for other entrepreneurs and organizations,” chair Christina Clarke said. “It’s never easy for the panel to narrow the field to two finalists and then choose a recipient. We’re grateful for the effort and integrity of everyone who was part of the selection process, and we can’t wait to continue celebrating tonight’s finalists in the weeks and months ahead.”
FORGE Technical Solutions was named New Business of the Year, non profit of the year went to the Victoria Brain Injury Society, Business Person of the Year was Tessa McLoughlin of KWENCH, Community Builder of the Year went to Victoria Native Friendship Centre, Inderbir Singh of Western Canada Security was named Emerging Business Person of the Year, Innovation Award went to Rifflandia Entertainment Company, The Green Kiss was hailed for its Outstanding Customer Service, Outstanding Workplace went to Brentwood Bay Resort and Sustainable Business Practices was awarded to Schneider Electric.
Hailed for the commitment to prosperity and mentorship of other entrepreneurs, a Victoria travel agent claimed the annual Award of Distinction announced in April. Cathy Scott owns Departures Travel, a Victoria-based agency celebrating 40 years in business, and Niche Travel, which specializes in custom tours of Vancouver Island and women's tours around the globe.
The Award of Distinction signifies achievement, resourcefulness and determination and recognizes a business leader who makes a positive contribution to the economy and our community overall.
The Chamber also previously announced Josue Dubon as Chamber Member of the Year recognizing engaged, passionate and committed individuals who foster relationships with the community, advocate on behalf of businesses and take an active role with the Chamber.
