2026 Business Builder Awards – Applications

The Business Builder Award winner is decided by a live vote the night of the event. Nominees are narrowed down to 4 finalists chosen by the NSBA Board of Directors. The finalists are businesses who exemplify the NSBA spirit and contribute to the success and well-being of the community.

Previous winners:

2025 – Bill’s House of Flowers

2024 – The Prairie Grazer

2023 – The Saskatoon Club

Awarded to the NBSA business that was founded and currently led by a young entrepreneur (39 or under), that is demonstrating a valuable contribution to the Saskatoon and/or Saskatchewan economy through a growing network of local suppliers and customers. The leadership and vision of this company is to leverage Saskatoon’s and/or Saskatchewan’s network to allow other companies – vendors and customers – grow alongside it for the betterment of the local economy.

The Community Builder Award is awarded to the NSBA business that demonstrates a clear commitment to operating in a philanthropic and empathetic manner in the community.

Awarded to the NSBA business that has demonstrated exceptional leadership in fostering effective teamwork, collaboration, and a positive and inclusive company culture to achieve strong, cohesive, and high-performing teams. By prioritizing diversity, employee satisfaction, physical and mental health, and community involvement, these organizations create a workplace that reflects shared values and supports both individual and team success.

This award celebrates the NSBA business that has demonstrated exceptional growth through strategic expansion, market diversification, or the development of a new customer base. This award highlights organizations that have successfully scaled operations, entered new markets, or developed new business practices introduced innovative products or services that contribute to sustained growth and competitive advantage for long-term success.

Awarded to the NSBA business that embraces and promotes Indigenous peoples having equitable access to jobs, training/education, and entrepreneurship opportunities, or through economic development projects that promote long-term sustainable benefits to Indigenous communities.

Awarded to the NSBA business that has demonstrated creativity and forward-thinking by identifying and pursuing a groundbreaking business idea, product, service, and/or process. This award recognizes organizations that are committed to exploring new possibilities, pushing boundaries, and leading with innovative approaches that drive growth and positive change in your company or industry.

The Pursuit of Excellence Award is awarded to the NSBA business that is an industry leader among its peers and/or within the business community.

The Safe Employer Award is awarded to the NSBA business that exemplifies and promotes safety in the workplace.

The Small Business Award is awarded to the NSBA small business (10 employees or less) that promotes quality in product and customer service.

Awarded to the NSBA business that demonstrates leadership in embedding environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles into their operations and strategy. This may include actions to reduce environmental impact, promote social well-being, enhance transparency, or strengthen long-term resilience. Whether through energy efficiency, inclusive hiring, community partnerships, or climate-smart innovation, this business shows how sustainability and profitability can go hand-in-hand.

Why This Award Matters
Customers, investors, employees, and communities are all raising their expectations. Businesses that embrace sustainability are proving more competitive, innovative, and future-ready. This award recognizes those leading the way.