Port Coquitlam, BC – March 2, 2023… Port Coquitlam’s business community was celebrated Wednesday evening at the return of the eighth annual PoCo Best Biz Awards event.

The City of Port Coquitlam event attracted over 150 people to the Port Coquitlam Community Centre – Mabbett Hall on Mar 1 to network and honour the City’s approximately 4,100 businesses. This was the largest Best Biz Awards event the City has held. This year five businesses were recognized with awards or honourable mentions.

“I’m incredibly proud of all Port Coquitlam businesses on how they contribute to our community and providing much needed goods, services and jobs to our residents,” Mayor Brad West told the audience. “There is a renewed sense of energy, excitement and confidence in the City of Port Coquitlam and it is thanks to the local businesses that make it happen.”

In total, 240 nominations were received for 100 businesses in four categories: Big Business, Small Business, Home-based Business and Entrepreneur of the Year. All nominees were also entered into the People’s Choice category, which this year received more than 3600 votes from the public.

This year’s awards were sponsored by the Tri-City News (media sponsor) and, the Port Coquitlam Downtown Business Improvement Association (PoCo BIA). The winners were chosen by a selection committee with representatives from the City, the BIA and the Tri-Cities Chamber of Commerce.

Entrepreneur of the Year
Six nominations were received in new category, for people or businesses who have developed an innovative business concept with good development potential, showed creativity in overcoming challenges, and attracted regional attention.
Winner: Cassandra Cake Co.

Home-based Business of the Year
Eleven nominations were received for the Home-based Business category, which recognizes businesses that provide a service from their home and have demonstrated significant growth, sustainability and excellent customer service.
Winner: Room to Roam Outdoor Learning

Small Business of the Year
Sixty-eight nominations were received in this category, for businesses with 1 to 15 employees that have drawn positive attention to Port Coquitlam, provided outstanding customer service, and shown leadership in social and cultural responsibility.
Winner: Emilio Finatti

Big Business of the Year
Seven nominations were made in this category for businesses with more than 15 employees that have drawn positive attention to Port Coquitlam, shown leadership in social and cultural responsibility, and provided outstanding customer service.
Winner: Aspira Astoria Retirement Living

People’s Choice Award
All nominees are entered into the People’s Choice category, which is voted on by the public. This year’s approximately 3100 votes were cast.
“This year’s People’s Choice Award goes to a business that pulled in almost 570 online votes,” said award presenter Mayor Brad West. “This business is a small service provider that is obviously treasured by its loyal fan base.”
Winner: Richelle Nails and Spa
Runner Up: ILU Convenience Store

All nominees and photos from the event are featured at portcoquitlam.ca/bizawards.

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MEDIA CONTACT

Ximena Ibacache
Manager of Communications & Administrative Services
City of Port Coquitlam
Tel 604.927.5499
Email ibacachex@portcoquitlam.ca